Overview
- Polanski’s side has won three in a row to climb from 18th to 12th, capped by a 3–1 derby victory over Köln.
- Sporting director Rouven Schröder requested talks during the international break about elevating Polanski from interim to head coach.
- Polanski and Schröder speak daily on sporting matters, while contract negotiations are handled through the coach’s agent.
- Reporting credits the turnaround to a set defensive block with a back three of Diks, Elvedi and Sander plus Reitz and Engelhardt as ball-winners.
- The club posted video of Polanski’s rousing pre-derby address, and with 11 players on international duty he will face Lierse on Thursday with U19 and U23 call-ups to maintain rhythm before Heidenheim.