Leon Avdullahu issues mentality message ahead of Hoffenheim clash with Stuttgart

Leon Avdullahu has called on Hoffenheim to show the right mentality when they face Stuttgart this afternoon.

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Hoffenheim midfielder Leon Avdullahu admits last weekend’s disappointment against Borussia Dortmund is still lingering as Christian Ilzer’s side welcome Stuttgart.

The hosts couldn't make their advantage count against Dortmund, and Avdullahu was asked ahead of this afternoon's match how long it took the squad to shake off that frustration. 

“It's still there a little bit; it still lingers a little,” Avdullahu told DAZN. 

“But I think you have to look forward now, focus on today's game and build on the performance we showed for the first 60 minutes last week, taking the positives from that.”

The midfielder was then asked about Hoffenheim's struggles to maintain momentum over a full 90 minutes. 

“I think it's simply a question of mentality,” he explained. “I think we've realised that if you don't have that, you lose as well. And I think we have to show that today.”

Visitors Stuttgart arrive in Sinsheim after midweek Champions League action, but Avdullahu doesn't expect that to give Hoffenheim any significant advantage. 

“Yes, I think so,” he said when asked whether VfB could be feeling the effects of Europe. “But I also think Stuttgart will have energy because they're professionals too. So we have to focus on ourselves and play our game."