Football Season Guide

Kaiserslautern made their return to the top flight after several years in the wilderness last term and not only survived but eventually did very well. A late run of form, combined with those above them collapsing, saw them secure a top half finish on the final day and they have every right to be delighted with that. However, doing so well at the first attempt means progressing at the second may prove impossible and simply consolidating their status as a mid-table team is likely to be considered the goal for this campaign. Sippel lost his place in goals last season but is a potentially superb `keeper while the defence, led by Rodnei and Amedick, is relatively solid in front of him. The midfield does have some issues as Hlousek and Moravek have left but there are still creative players here who are more than capable of doing a good job. The attack too has some issues for concern as Lakic has left but Sahan and Schechter arriving mean this area has not been completely neglected over summer either. Lautern are a solid enough side and with a good start another mid-table campaign should certainly not be beyond them.