Preview: Ulm the visitors before the international break

1. FC Köln welcome SSV Ulm to the RheinEnergieSTADION on Saturday, 13:00 CEST. It is the final fixture before the second international break of the season.

Form check

1. FC Köln: Despite scoring four goals against Karlsruhe, FC were unable to get the better of the table-toppers in a thrilling 4:4 draw. After the dramatic stalemate with Düsseldorf (2:2) and the narrow defeat against Magdeburg (1:2), Gerhard Struber’s side are hoping to get back to winning ways before the two-week break.

SSV Ulm: After going five games without a win, Ulm have won their last two fixtures. A 3:1 win away in Elversberg was followed up by three points at home to Eintracht Braunschweig (3:1). They are full of confidence heading to Müngersdorf.

The coaches have had their say

Gerhard Struber: “Ulm are very robust and physical. We have respect for Ulm and know what they can do. We want to keep our focus on us and want to concentrate on what we want to do on the pitch.”

Thomas Wörle: “Köln are the top favourites for promotion. They are a traditional club, have a massive stadium, lots of fans and the squad with the highest market value. We are facing an opponent that look slight favourites for the game.”

Fitness update

1. FC Köln: Dejan Ljubicic remains absent after having his tonsils removed. Mark Uth is making strides towards recovery, and both will hopefully return during the international break. Otherwise, there is no new updates surrounding the long-term injuries.

SSV Ulm: Christian Ortag will miss the game after breaking his collarbone in the win over Eintracht Braunschweig and will likely be replaced by Niclas Thiede. Aaron Keller is also unavailable.