Gerhard Struber spoke to the media ahead of his side’s clash with Hull City this weekend, previewing the game and reflecting on his latest signings Tommy Horvat and Noah Ayre.
The Austrian began by explaining that the new arrivals will “help us here and now, but also in the future.”
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Speaking specifically about Ayre, Struber praised the defender’s ball-handling abilities, describing him as “a really good player, especially on the ball. He can help us quickly at a good level… and we want to help and support him.”
Struber also hinted that the two new signings could be available as early as this weekend, depending on their performance in training. He added that while some players still need time to adapt, the team is currently in a positive place.
“We have some players that have to settle into our principles and that’s going to take a little time, but we have a very interesting roster right now,” he said.
Manchester City lost their all-time Championship appearances leader Zach Wyner during the winter transfer window, with Struber admitting his departure came as a surprise. “I was a little surprised that we lost Zach Weiner, but at the end of the day, everyone has done their job and is ready to find a replacement. With Al, we have a really fun player,” he added.
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Looking back at the team’s last game – a 5-0 defeat at home to Derby County – Struber’s assessment was candid.
“All we did was go in a negative direction. Our preparation for this game was not up to par and of course the game was really bad,” he said before turning his attention to the front. “Hull City are in front of us now and that’s the focus.”
He also welcomed the closing of the transfer window, acknowledging the impact recent departures have had on the squad.
“I’m really happy that we’ve finished the transfer window. We’ve lost a lot of players and sometimes that affects the dynamic of the team. They’re not only teammates but also friends.”
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There has been mixed news on the injury front, with Struber confirming midfielder Max Bird is unlikely to return this weekend.
“It’s a bit too early for Max but we’re looking forward to the FA Cup game and maybe that’s a realistic opportunity for him to get back on the bench,” he said.
Turning his attention to Hull City’s recent performances, Struber acknowledged the challenges his side face.
“They have been playing at a very, very high level over the last 15 games and we have to be at our best on Saturday to get the points,” he said, underlining the competitiveness of the division.
“The Championship is a very competitive, very high-quality league. There are a lot of top teams.”
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Hull City have picked up an impressive 29 points from 33 points in their last 11 league games. Despite last weekend’s setback, Struber believes his team is capable of responding.
“When we’re all on the same page, we can create real big problems for them. I have a strong belief and a strong trust,” he said.
When asked about City’s play-off ambitions, the manager remained cautious: “We know everything can change in the Championship. We have a lot of games ahead of us and we have to do our best.”
City won 4-2 earlier in the season, with Emil Riis scoring twice and Anis Mehmeti and Max Bird also adding a goal each. A similar result this weekend would go a long way to strengthening their position in the race for a top-six spot.
The match will take place at the MKM Stadium on Saturday 7 February, with kick-off set for 3pm (UK time).
