Daum targets change of fortune for Frankfurt

The ambitions of new Eintracht Frankfurt coach Christoph Daum extend far beyond securing the club’s Bundesliga status.

Daum, 57, joined Frankfurt on Tuesday following the dismissal of Michael Skibbe.He arrives to find the team 14th on the Bundesliga table, just three points clear of the relegation zone with seven matches left to play. While Daum acknowledges that his priority is to keep the team in the top flight, he also has grand plans for the future. “I’m not a fireman, I’m a concept coach,” Daum said.”Laying on of hands isn’t enough. I will work for Eintracht 25 hours a day.””I want to create a spirit of optimism in Frankfurt. Eintracht are a traditional club with huge potential. I’m not thinking about the 2. Liga (second tier).”Daum, who has coached Bayer Leverkusen and Fenerbahce along with four other clubs in a 25-year managerial career, believes developing the right mentality within the squad is the key to success. “The head always plays an important role in football,” he said.”When it works properly then it is a third leg and can make the difference.””The most important thing is to make ourselves safe as quickly as possible.”After the international break, Frankfurt’s next match is away to fellow strugglers Wolfsburg on April 3.