Fortuna Düsseldorf were one of many sides who faced the distinct possibility of relegation during this season before seven points in the final three rounds helped Freidholm Funkel’s side secure safety. Düsseldorf recruited little before the start of the campaign which looked risky considering their relegation battle last season. But early on in the season the team looked to have benefited from the familiarity of a settled squad with some very impressive results. Their solidity at the back was their greatest strength as they finished the first round of matches with the third best defensive record. After the winter break, however, their form completely changed and their struggle for goals was the most obvious deficit – only an average of one per match in the second 17 fixtures. Fortuna’s home form in particular is something they will have to work on as they had the second worst record behind relegated Karslruher SC.
Fortuna were fortunate to have few injuries this season and, at the times they were without a regular starters, the small squad showed the lack of depth. Michael Rensing deserves credit for playing in every game and keeping a total of 11 clean sheets, he was vital to anchor the defence which was largely consistent. However some members of the squad showed their age such as Alexander Madlung who quickly became the fourth or even fifth option at centre back. Rouwen Hennings also had a long lean period even though he ended the season as top scorer. In their and a few other veterans places a host of youth team graduates were promoted and gained valuable experience, even if it could have ultimately cost the team. The most valuable player in the squad was winger Ihlas Bebou who not only scored five, but created 8 and was dangerous throughout the season.
