EXCLUSIVE: A chat with Stephan Schrock

Goal.ph/Anton Sheker

Filipino-German footballer Stephan Schrock reintroduced himself to local football fans after a dominant performance in the Philippine national football team’s 2-0 victory against Singapore last Wednesday. Schrock owned the midfield, showing superior quality as he hooked up with Azkals stars Chieffy Caligdong and Phil Younghusband for the surprise victory.

InterAKTV had a chance to chat with Schrock with the help of Anton Sheker of Goal.ph, who lent his laptop to the Azkal as he answered questions about the Bundesliga and the Philippine team.

What prompted your switch from second division champions and newly promoted Greuther Furth to TSG Hoffenheim?

I’ve been in Furth for 11 years, and after we (were) promoted to 1.Bundesliga with Furth, my thought was I have to change myself… I’m happy to sign for a such a big club like Hoffenheim, but I also miss my old club.

How will it be like to play Greuther Furth again in the Bundesliga, now that you are with Hoffenheim?

A little bit strange cause I was wearing the colors of Furth so long and Furth is still a big part of me, so it will be the most emotional match for me in the season.

Can you tell us what happened in your game against Eintracht Frankfurt? It was your debut in the Bundesliga, unfortunate that you got two yellow cards.

The Frankfurt game is history already. I always try to learn about my faults and that’s it. I will do it better next time.

How big of a factor was [German] coach Hans Michael Weiss in your deciding to play for the Azkals?

I always wanted to play for the Azkals, long time before Coach Weiss came in. But now Coach Weiss is here, [it] makes it easier for me to bring myself in for the Azkals.

Coach Weiss is very important for the Philippines football. He got clear visions how everything has to process and he is not afraid to try something different. I hope Coach Weiss, boss Dan [Palami, Azkals team manager,] and Mr. Santi Araneta [UFL chairman] will work together for a long, I think these three persons are a big boost for Philippines football.

Who were your footballing heroes while growing up, and why?

Diego Maradona. He was small, got that unbelievable skills.

Why did you choose the number 40 as his number for Hoffenheim?

17 wasn’t available.

The paramount question in all Azkals’ fans minds: Will TSG Hoffenheim release you for the Suzuki Cup? The final maybe the semi-finals might fall into the German winter break.

Honestly, I don’t know it [yet]. I will talk to Coach Weiss these days, maybe we will find a way to make [me] come out for this Cup.

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