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'I can imagine playing for Ukraine,' says ex-Germany U21 midfielder Roman Neustadter
The 23-year-old is considering joining the Euro 2012 co-hosts for his international career, but remains settled at his club, Monchengladbach
Oct 11, 2011 2:20:00 PM
Getty Images
EXCLUSIVE
By Falko Bloding
Borussia Monchengladbach have been this season's surprise package in the Bundesliga, having stormed out of the gates to a position just three points behind leaders Bayern Munich after eight games.
At the centre of the former German heavyweights' success is Roman Neustadter, whose presence in midfield has helped Lucien Favre's side secure an average record of just 0.5 goals conceded per game.
During the break from club football, Goal.com caught up with the 23-year-old to discuss his future at both Gladbach and international level, his team's goals for the season, and his comparisons to Michael Ballack.
Goal.com: Let's start with the topic that has lately become a recurring topic in the media: the Ukrainian Association would like to have you in their national team [ed. note: Neustadter was born in Dnipropetrovsk, in modern Ukraine]. It has been written that you need a passport. What is the current situation?
Roman Neustadter: It is true that the team manager of the Ukrainian national side called and asked me whether I could imagine playing for Ukraine. I can well imagine so. No further contact has yet been made, the Association is now taking care of all formalities before I get a passport.
Goal.com: Is it realistic that you may be used [by Ukraine] in the November 11 friendly against Germany?
Neustadter: No, I have no idea.
Goal.com: Your ex-coach Jorn Andersen once said you were a tough guy, "like a young Michael Ballack." Do you see any similarities?
Neustadter: Phew! I know Michael Ballack only from the past and know of the world class performances he brought to Chelsea and Bayern [Munich]. Maybe we are similar in body size and running style. Otherwise not that much. Because he was more one to go forward himself. I prefer to create play from the back.
Goal.com: Your contract expires next summer. Initial discussions about an extension have already taken place. What is your preference and when do they [Monchengladbach] want to have things clarified?
Neustadter: I'm concentrating on football and playing well, and not on any speculations. My agent will take care of the rest.
Goal.com: But you want to remain in Monchengladbach?
Neustadter: Yes, if everything is good, of course!
Goal.com: And what club would have to come knocking to pique your interest? Do you have a dream club?
Neustadter: My dream club at the moment is Borussia Monchengladbach.
Goal.com: Things have been going well - what are your goals for the season?
Neustadter: We're aiming for no particular targets. Every day of the week we want to work hard and do well in the games. That's the most important thing. We don't talk about a final standing.
By Falko Bloding
Borussia Monchengladbach have been this season's surprise package in the Bundesliga, having stormed out of the gates to a position just three points behind leaders Bayern Munich after eight games.
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At the centre of the former German heavyweights' success is Roman Neustadter, whose presence in midfield has helped Lucien Favre's side secure an average record of just 0.5 goals conceded per game.
During the break from club football, Goal.com caught up with the 23-year-old to discuss his future at both Gladbach and international level, his team's goals for the season, and his comparisons to Michael Ballack.
Goal.com: Let's start with the topic that has lately become a recurring topic in the media: the Ukrainian Association would like to have you in their national team [ed. note: Neustadter was born in Dnipropetrovsk, in modern Ukraine]. It has been written that you need a passport. What is the current situation?
Roman Neustadter: It is true that the team manager of the Ukrainian national side called and asked me whether I could imagine playing for Ukraine. I can well imagine so. No further contact has yet been made, the Association is now taking care of all formalities before I get a passport.
Goal.com: Is it realistic that you may be used [by Ukraine] in the November 11 friendly against Germany?
Neustadter: No, I have no idea.
Goal.com: Your ex-coach Jorn Andersen once said you were a tough guy, "like a young Michael Ballack." Do you see any similarities?
Neustadter: Phew! I know Michael Ballack only from the past and know of the world class performances he brought to Chelsea and Bayern [Munich]. Maybe we are similar in body size and running style. Otherwise not that much. Because he was more one to go forward himself. I prefer to create play from the back.
Goal.com: Your contract expires next summer. Initial discussions about an extension have already taken place. What is your preference and when do they [Monchengladbach] want to have things clarified?
Neustadter: I'm concentrating on football and playing well, and not on any speculations. My agent will take care of the rest.
Goal.com: But you want to remain in Monchengladbach?
Neustadter: Yes, if everything is good, of course!
Goal.com: And what club would have to come knocking to pique your interest? Do you have a dream club?
Neustadter: My dream club at the moment is Borussia Monchengladbach.
Goal.com: Things have been going well - what are your goals for the season?
Neustadter: We're aiming for no particular targets. Every day of the week we want to work hard and do well in the games. That's the most important thing. We don't talk about a final standing.
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| Open an account with Sportingbet today and get up to £50 in free bets! |
|
| Sign up with William Hill for a free bet up to £25 |
|
| Sign up with bet365 for a free bet up to £200 |
|
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