Svensson talks of 'difficult' week ahead of Leipzig clash
Mainz head coach Bo Svensson has described how a coronavirus outbreak in the Mainz camp has affected the team's preparation ahead of the game at Leipzig on Sunday.
The start of Svensson's first full season in charge of Mainz was thrown into disarray when a coronavirus outbreak in the squad during the week forced a large number of the squad into isolation.
Mainz's head coach told a press conference on Friday: "The week was very difficult of course.
"It's difficult to play against Leipzig at any time, in any formation, under any circumstances. Now the challenge has not got any smaller," stated Svensson.
The 42-year-old disclosed: "On the recommendation of the health department, we haven't had any training this week. We will train with the squad for Sunday for the first time this afternoon."
Despite all the uncertainty in the preparation for the season opener against Leipzig, Svensson did express his joy at the return of fans.
"We have a very big anticipation for the return of fans. To feel the connection with the fans will be very nice despite everything," said the Mainz head coach.