Though dissatisfied with the match against Schalke, Matthias Ginter was keen to look forward rather than back. "We need to continue working hard, then we'll get what we deserve," said the BVB defender in a post-match interview.

Matthias, why did things not go to plan in the first period?
We gave the ball away too easily a lot and were then repeatedly hit on the counter. That naturally uses up energy if you're constantly moving up the pitch and then have to sprint back 50-60 metres. We didn't really settle into a rhythm and the consequence was that we didn't create any real chances on goal. In the second half things started to improve, but a full 45 minutes without a single shot is a tough one to take – especially by our standards.

Do you think that now and then, you let some of Schalke's tough tackling get to you a bit?
No, I don't think so. All in all, we made too many simple mistakes. The consequence was that we were forced into unnecessary challenges, which Schalke got the better of in the first period. We are still a young side and have a lot of potential, but we're still learning too. Especially the younger players. We need to continue working hard, then we'll get what we deserve.

"We improved in the second period"

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In recent matches, you have had problems with your build-up play. What's the reason for that?
This is definitely not a general problem. As I've said, today we gave the ball away too easily a lot. That used up energy. That is especially problematic when the fixture list is as congested as it is now. But then in the second half we were much better.

You were late out of the changing rooms? What were you doing in there?
We were still analysing a few incidents, that's what took a bit longer. But we were still on time... (smirks).

Three points from the last four Bundesliga games. What's your take on that?
We are through to the next round in the Cup and are in a good position in the Champions League. Unfortunately, we're lagging behind a bit in the league but I don't think it's a bad thing for our young team to go through such spells. We'll emerge from it stronger.

"We need to focus on the simple things"

Sporting are next up on Wednesday. How much of a challenge is it?
We have a Champions League home game. The home games in particular are very important in this competition. They largely decide which teams make it through. With that in mind the match is very important and we absolutely want to win. It won't be easy, you could see that from the first match in Portugal. But we also showed what we could do in that game. So I'm confident.

What needs to change from the last few games?
We need to focus on our virtues again and concentrate on the simple things. Simple passes and simple moves. Then we'll get back to scoring goals and winning games. (djg)