“Perfect, that I can get started right away”

Shortly before HSV travelled to Lagos for the customary winter training camp, the Rothosen were able to unveil Louis Schaub as the first signing of the January transfer window, a signing the hierarchy were more than happy with: “Louis is very versatile in attack, has a good eye for that killer final ball and can trouble the ‘keeper from range,” according to HSV Head of Sport Jonas Boldt.” Schaub was able to prove what everyone was raving about during the first sessions in Lagos, taking a lead role despite being the newest member of the squad. “You can already see, that Louis has got a lot of quality in 1-v-1 situations and isn’t afraid to test the ‘keeper”, were manager Dieter Hecking’s words of encouragement as the first day in Portugal drew to a close. 

The Austrian himself has been able to settle into life quickly for HSV for a number of reason. “It was perfect for my integration that I was able to travel with the team to the training camp straight away, as I can get to know the other lads as well as the manager’s philosophy straight away.” Two familiar faces, namely international colleagues Martin Harnik and Lukas Hinterseer, also helped ease their compatriot into life in HSV colours: “Of course it doesn’t hurt when you already know a few people in the team, it certainly makes life easier at the beginning,” according to the 25-year-old, who is sharing a room with Jan Gyamerah at ‘La Cascade’ hotel. The most important thing for the new number 20 will be preparing for the second half of the season, the remaining games and the aim that all in the club want to achieve come May.