Markus Gisdol extended his contract until 2018 last week. You've worked together for two years now, how has it been?

Rudy: "He was already in charge of the U23s and knows the club well, which has been a huge positive. He understands the philosophy of the team well and youngsters here have a real chance to make it to the first team, which is something he feels strongly about. We know what he wants on the pitch."

You're four games without a win but are chasing the European spots. How important is this weekend's game in the overall context of the season?

Rudy: "We still have a few games to play, so can't dwell on things. We need to have our eyes on the ball. We want to get back into our stride against Hannover and pick up three points. Four defeats in a row in all comeptitions isn't great and we want to turn things around. Having said that, this doesn't mean Saturday is more important than normal - three points are at stake in every game."

Hannover changed their manager in the week. What sort of game are you expecting?

Rudy: "It's difficult to say as changing the manager could bring alterations to the team and tactics. We'll be concentrating on our own performance primarily. Hannover haven't won for a while and will be determined to pick up the points in front of their own supporters; we'll be doing all we can to make sure this doesn't happen. It's going to be a keenly fought match."