"The Hammer" returns to the Bundesliga
Wolfsburg - Thomas Hitzlsperger is back in the Bundesliga. The 52-time Germany international signed for VfL Wolfsburg on Wednesday evening having recently been released by English Premier League club West Ham United.
'The Hammer', as he was christened in England for his powerful shooting ability, has signed a three-year deal and will wear the number No10 jersey for the Wolves. The former Aston Villa and VfB Stuttgart midfielder spoke of his delight at the chance of a new start at the Volkswagen Arena.
Question: Thomas Hitzlsperger, your transfer came as something of a surprise as there was no prior media speculation. Since when have you been in contact with VfL?
Thomas Hitzlsperger: We'd been in contact for a few days and I'd met with Felix Magath. I'm very happy that everything was kept internal until we were able to sort the final details.
Question: Why did you opt to move to the Wolves?
Hitzlsperger: VfL are an ambitious club with a very good team. I've had success with several clubs [in Germany] and that's why I wanted to return. The squad possesses great quality and has real potential. If we can perform consistently, we will achieve our goals.Question: How did your new team-mates react when they saw you entering the changing rooms
Hitzlsperger: I was given a warm welcome. Many of them know me and I've played together with some of them at club level and even internationally before. I'm really happy to be playing together with them again now.
Question: What are your goals here?
Hitzlsperger: I want to play amongst the top teams, be successful and show what I am capable of. VfL and I have the same goals. Now I want to play my part.
Question: How does it feel to be back in the Bundesliga?
Hitzlsperger: It's all very exciting at the moment but that's exactly what I've been preparing for. I'm looking forward to my first outing in the VfL jersey.
Question: …which could be on Friday evening against Borussia Mönchengladbach?
Hitzlsperger: I have a good feeling and I kept my fitness levels up by continuing to train with Tottenham Hotspur. I think I'm fit enough to play."
Question: What do you bring with you from the English Premier League?
Hitzlsperger: I played in England for six years altogether and know the football there well. The tempo is always high there and every single player is extremely dedicated. I want to use that in the Bundesliga.
Source
I know, considering the current state of competion among potential NT-players, it'll be quite difficult for Hitz to regain his place there, but... Can we please turn this into a Thomas Hitzlsperger appreciation post? I missed that man way too much.
Edit: LJ just hates me, I don't know why there are so many gaps... I sincerely apologize for the HTML-fail.