FC St. Pauli

"I had to write the names down to make sure I didn't forget anyone," said head coach Olaf Janßen, kicking off the press conference before the trip to FC Nürnberg. It was a long list that the 50-year-old read out. And it now includes Luca Zander, who according to Janßen was "on the verge of a first-team start" until he picked up an injury in training. The good news, however followed immediately: "It's looking good for all the lads to be back in full training soon."

So, the stage is set for a number of players who have yet to see much playing time so far this season. "The lads have intensified the battle for places and shown they're ready for a place in the starting lineup," said Janßen before adding: "Every player making the trip today has my full confidence. A number of players put themselves in the frame against Groningen."

Janßen hinted that the team sheet at the Max Morlock Stadium could contain the odd surprise. "It's possible that the eleven players who take to the field tomorrow will not be the ones our opponents are expecting," he explained. The Boys in Brown will not change their approach due to the enforced changes, however, and will look to play an active role in the game, though lessons will be learned from the 3-0 defeat at SV Darmstadt 98, of course, where they were ultimately second best despite enjoying plenty of possession.

Warning enough for the St. Pauli boss, then, against a strong Nürnberg side. "They have enormous quality and will be highly motivated after the setback at Aue," he said. Janßen and his opposite number, Michael Köllner, obtained their coaching badge together in 2004 by the way. "We were on the same wavelength, got on really well and a friendship has developed between us," said Janßen, who concluded by saying: "Perhaps we'll manage to have a beer together after the game."

Photo: Witters