Football Season Guide

Fortuna Dusseldorf completed their remarkable return from the depths of German football when they earned promotion to the First Division last season. They did just enough to edge out Hertha Berlin in a nervous play-off encounter and they will now take on the even harder task of trying to survive in the top flight. The manager has certainly been very active this summer, signing virtually a whole team of players, but the quality of these recruits is up for debate. The headline grabbing name is certainly Voronin who has shown previously he has the skill for this level but time has passed and it remains to be seen if he still has what it takes. Papadopoulos has signed from Greece which should solve the goalkeeping issue which was problematic last season while Soares, Rafael and Bellinghausen look like additions which are solid rather than spectacular. A lot will be expected of the inspirational Lambertz but Fortuna will have a hard time in picking up points this season. Ironically their size may count against them as opponents are unlikely to be intimidated in visiting their large and luxurious stadium and they really will have to hit the ground running if they are to survive at this level.