Following the training session on Tuesday morning, fullback Joe Scally sat down for a press conference with the media at Klosterpforte.
Joe Scally on…
…his start to life in Mönchengladbach: It was definitely always a dream of mine to play in Europe. That’s why I was so excited to join Borussia, but it wasn’t easy for at first when I arrived in January. I was a long way away from my home, my family and my friends. But I received a very warm welcome here, so I quickly grew to feel comfortable and at home.
…his goals at Borussia: Naturally I want to play as much as possible and help the team in whatever way I can. It’s tough to estimate how many appearances I’ll make this season. I just want to make myself an option for the coach and improve my game in every training session. In the end, it’s up to the coach whether or not to play me.
…his favourite positions: I feel most at home on the right side of defence, but I can play on the right wing in a more attacking role as well. Last season in the U23s I was also used on the left side of the back four.
…his experiences with the U23s: As a young player it’s always important to get as many minutes as possible, so for that reason I’m very happy to be playing regularly with the U23s. Above all, it helps me to get to know German football and the tactical side of the game, which is something that is very important here in Europe.
…his experiences in the MLS: It was definitely a big help to have played in the MLS. It helped to prepare me for the Bundesliga in terms of physicality, pace and tactics, although the level here is much higher of course.
…former Foals from the US - Kasey Keller, Michael Bradley and Fabian Johnson: I know all three of them of course and I’ve also played against Michael. I’ve never had any personal contact with any of them though, let alone speaking to them about Gladbach. Unfortunately that’s just something that hasn’t happened.
…his contact with Borussia Dortmund attacker Giovanni Reyna: We’re good friends and he told me a lot about the Bundesliga before my transfer here. Giovanni came to Germany two years ago and it helps me a lot that he already has some experience that he can pass on to me.
…his knowledge of the German language: I’m working hard in my German classes and I already know a few words. For example in the supermarket, I can ask for types of meat and other items in German. It's getting better every day, but it will take a while before I can speak it properly.
