Overview
- Captain Jackson Irvine is close to the matchday squad but is more likely to come off the bench after six months without a game.
- James Sands remains a doubt as he undergoes DFL-mandated return-to-play checks following a head incident against Hoffenheim.
- Karol Mets is expected to start after a brief comeback appearance, with Hauke Wahl also available as Alexander Blessin reshapes the back line.
- If Sands is not cleared, options for the holding role include Irvine, Connor Metcalfe or Danel Sinani, while Eric Smith is likely retained in the back three.
- Joel Fujita is available again as St. Pauli, now 14th after four straight defeats, target tighter protection in front of the defense.