For Lucien Favre, continually setting new records seems to be another source of motivation not to rest on his laurels. The coach responded to the news that he has set another club record with a smile but was quick to issue a warning, saying: "We need to develop further. That's the most important thing. Almost everyone can improve further, and as a team too we can get still get better both in technical and tactical terms."

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The BVB boss extended his unbeaten run to 15 matches (12 wins, three draws) since taking the reins. None of his predecessors have managed that. "I didn't know. Obviously I'm happy," said the Swiss tactician, who turned 61 yesterday, adding: "The most important thing is to focus on the next training session."

Of the narrow but deserved 1-0 victory over VfL Wolfsburg, Favre said: "It was a difficult game, especially in the first half. Wolfsburg were very well organised at that point, we were okay. We did try to create chances, but it was very difficult to identify gaps. The opening goal was very important. In the second period, we were better for the first 30 minutes and dominated the match. At that stage we should've made it 2-0. We didn't manage to do so, which meant there was a danger of conceding an equaliser right until the end."

Having seen their lead cut to two points following the 2-2 draw with Hertha last weekend, the triumph in Wolfsburg means that the team have re-established their four-point cushion at the top and will be the league leaders over the international break whatever happens. But when asked about his team's strong run of form heading into the upcoming clash with Bayern Munich next weekend, Favre showed his usual restraint: "There's still a lot to do. We're focusing on the next game – and that's against Atlético Madrid..."
Boris Rupert