Giant 'keeper says that there are still bits to work on in pre-season.
Thorsten Stuckmann’s first game in a Doncaster Rovers shirt on Tuesday night offered a reassuring performance and was equalled by his comments when speaking to doncasterroversfc.co.uk post game.The giant German goalkeeper took many positives from the 1-1 draw against Nottingham Forest and a rear-guard that has grown – literally and metaphorically – in the close season.
“There are still a few bits to work on but it’s only our second game together and that will come by the time the season comes; we have three more home friendlies to do that,” said the 34 year old.
“For a start it was really good though and the more I talk and the more they listen and talk to each other, the less I have to do because that’s our aim, not to concede!
“Forest scored with their only real shot on target and I haven’t had much to do in the second half.”
Stuckmann, who was part of Preston’s successful promotion team last term – stands at 6’6” tall – also spoke of how difficult the opposition may find it to break such a tall back line.
“It helps because then I only have to come for certain balls as they will take the rest and that takes the pressure off me – it means we can rely on each other – and it must be frustrating for the strikers we face because if they put high balls in, they know they’re not going to stand much chance,” he said.
“I didn’t play as much as I would have liked last season, and I need to get used to that again. I think the sharpness will kick in – I can feel it already in the training sessions and there’s still some way to go until the start of the season.
“I enjoy every bit (of training). Obviously it’s hard work but its pre season and he makes me fitter. When I first came I couldn’t move after three days because training was tough but once you get over that point it’s so enjoyable and I think Paul [Gerrard – Goalkeeping coach] can help me a lot and improve my game as well.”