Höwedes: “Momentum for the Gladbach game”

Captain Benedikt Höwedes was key in his side’s Europa League group stage 3-1 home victory against RB Salzburg. His goal however, which gave Schalke a 3-0 advantage, was initially given to his Brazilian compatriot, Naldo. After some time though, the goal was eventually given to the 2014 World Champion.

Höwedes, however, didn’t seem to mind who the goal was assigned to, as he considers the win to be the more important for his team’s shaken confidence, after they’ve gone five Bundesliga matchdays without earning a single point. In this interview with DFB.de, the 28 year old speaks about his curious goal, the importance of the victory for Schalke in general and Sunday’s upcoming Bundesliga challenge against Borussia Mönchengladbach (17.30 CEST).

Question: Benedikt Höwedes, how many goals did you really score tonight?

Benedikt Höwedes: (laughs) None?!

Question: Not according to UEFA...

Höwedes: Officially, I believe, one, but this shouldn’t be a discussion, as Naldo’s header was definitely in.

Question: Did you discuss during or after the game with Naldo whose goal it was?

Höwedes: It didn’t cross my mind during the game. Afterwards I heard that the ball had already crossed the line. I was almost ashamed to celebrate our second because it was clearly an own goal, but if you don’t cross the ball you’ll never be rewarded.

Question: You really celebrated a goal which you almost have to apologise for. Was that the moment when you thought things might finally start going right for Schalke?

Höwedes: It would be nice if that was a sign that we have been rewarded for our efforts and that we finally have luck on our side. If we can carry this momentum into the game against Borussia Mönchengladbach I’d be very happy.

Question: Did you perform better against Salzburg than recently in the league?

Höwedes: We were efficient and had the game under control after taking the lead. You could see we were a bit tense at the start of the match, but you can’t just forget about our situation in the Bundesliga. However, we dealt with it well and really got our heads into the game. Getting a goal with our first chance gave us security and after we played better and let the ball and the opponents do the running. Conceding is annoying but all in all, what matters is that we finally scored more than one goal.

Question: What kind of an impression has coach Markus Weinzierl made in this tough situation, has he maybe changed approach with the players?

Höwedes: No, the coach is super positive, it’s absolutely great how he’s dealing with this situation. He’s in control, radiating positive energy and completely believes in the team. He conveys belief to us, that we’re okay and will be rewarded if we continue to work – this is what happened against Salzburg. I don’t want to say that the Europa League isn’t important but right now, the Bundesliga is more critical. Therefore, we should pay more attention to that.

Question: What are you taking with you from this game for the encounter with Gladbach?

Höwedes: I’m taking the three points, the three goals and a feeling of positivity also.

Question: Can we expect you to play so offensively on Sunday?

Höwedes: In the first half against Salzburg, I was relatively defensive. I needed something to get myself in the game. I had to get stuck in a bit and then everything went better, I started to go forward more. Ultimately though, it was two set-pieces, one was cleared off the line and the other, which worked, was very lucky.