""We know what we're up against with Koln," he said. "They may be a promoted team but they're very attacking and want to have a lot of possession. They also switch play quickly and try to get in behind the defence. "The respect for them is there, but obviously we want to play our game and win. It's a derby and also very important for the table. "A win would help us to travel to Leipzig next week and start the new year in a good position.""
"Koln are eighth in the Bundesliga, but a poor run of form has cancelled out a good start from the newly promoted side. They are winless in their last four league games and have won just twice in eight top-flight matches since the start of October."
"Schick was substituted off at half-time during Leverkusen's draw with Newcastle with a knock, but the striker is set to be fit for the derby. The 29-year-old has scored five goals and provided two assists in 11 league games for Leverkusen this season."
Leverkusen have lost two recent Bundesliga matches and currently sit fourth, six points behind second-placed RB Leipzig. A derby victory against Koln would restore momentum and improve league standing ahead of the final match before the winter break. Koln occupy eighth place but are winless in their last four league games and have only two wins in eight matches since October. Koln play an attacking, possession-focused style, switching play quickly and seeking runs behind defences. Patrik Schick picked up a knock in the Newcastle draw but is expected to be fit. Said El Mala has six goals this season, joint-most among teenagers.
Read at Soccer News
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