Hyypia notes Bremen strengths

Bayer Leverkusen coach Sami Hyypia expects his side to face a stern challenge when they travel to Werder Bremen on Wednesday.

Bremen have won four of their six home games in the Bundesliga this season, including their last three at the Weserstadion.

Leverkusen are also in good form, sitting fifth in the table having lost just one of their last 10 matches.

But Hyypia believes talk of European qualification is premature.

“Success comes in May,” Hypia said. “We haven’t reached anything yet.

“We still have to play a lot of games and have to earn a lot of points to be successful. We are only on half way.

“During the season it is very dangerous to hand out the Champions League and Europa League places. There are 21 games left to play so we need to focus on every game and try to win every game.”

Hypia noted Bremen’s strength in attack as a key area his side will have to neutralise if they are to taste success against Thomas Schaaf’s side.

“This season Bremen play a bit differently than in the past. They have great quality especially in attack,” the former Liverpool defender said.

“Bremen have great individual quality. They are well-organised as a team. They will try to put pressure on us.

“So we have to be ready and play calmly even if we are under pressure. We have to play calmly but quickly, then we have more space to attack.”