"We'll need to play at a high tempo and show persistence"

The Black and Yellows are currently on a 24-match unbeaten run at Signal Iduna Park that stretches back to 4 April 2015. And, having equalled the previous record set between 3 November 2001 and 15 March 2003, they now the opportunity to go one further if they can avoid defeat tomorrow.

Tuchel, however, has no interest in such statistics – whether it's the 40 million fans or the 25 matches. Having lost players to injury in that overly aggressive clash in Leverkusen, as well as in the ensuing fortnight while 15 of the club's players were away on international duty, there are only two figures dominating his thoughts: 18 and 11. Which players are able to start, and who is fit enough to go on the bench?

Ten players are currently sidelined through injury. "We're not sure whether we have 16 players available," said Tuchel, who may look to the U23s and U19s to reinforce his depleted squad. "We're hoping for the crowd's support," admitted the head coach, who will need the 12th man now more than ever.

"I expect Hertha to be compact and to show great tactical discipline," he continued. "It is incredibly difficult to create chances against this team. We'll need to play at a high tempo and show persistence if we want to get a result." At the same time, Tuchel emphasised the importance of keeping things tight at the back: "When you're playing the patience game, you need to avoid getting hit on the counter." Indeed, it would not be unlike Hertha to do just that. (br)