Gerhard Tremmel Swansea City Hertha Berlin International Cup
27th February
As Swansea City Under-23s prepare for Tuesday's Premier League International Cup quarter-final tie against Hertha Berlin II, German goalkeeper Gerhard Tremmel has reflected on his time at the club.
The shot-stopper, who hails from Munich, spent two seasons at Hertha between 2004 and 2006 and narrowly missing out on a Champions League place with them before moves to Cottbus, Red Bull Salzburg and Swansea.
Having featured six times as an overage player for the Swans development squad this season - including four appearances in the Checkatrade Trophy - Tremmel believes the young German side will be tough opponents at the Liberty Stadium.
"These cup tournaments are a fantastic opportunity to help our young players develop," the 38-year-old said.
"The chance to play knock-out cup football against a team from another country will only add to their learning.
"Hertha are known in the north of Germany for having a good youth academy. German teams are very tactical and hard to break down so it will be a great test for our young players.
"Having featured for the U23s a few times this season, I know how well they are playing.
"They are having a really good campaign and this will be an exciting game for them. You can see there is quality in this group and I think they have what it takes to go further in this competition."
The match will also be a case of friends reunited for Tremmel as the young German side are led by former team-mate Ante Covic.
A former midfielder who now coaches their development side, Covic made over 150 appearances for Hertha during two spells with the club.
"I played a few times with him," said Tremmel. "I have not had a chance to speak to him ahead of the game, but it will be a good opportunity to catch up - it has been a long time.
"I have some good memories from my time there, so I am looking forward to seeing the game on Tuesday.
"Every club I have been at has helped me progress in my career and Hertha was no different. However there is no doubt who I am supporting on the night.
"I have had six fantastic years here, I am a Jack and I would like to see our young players progress to the semi-final."
TICKET DETAILS
Tickets for Tuesday's quarter-final tie are on sale now. The match at Liberty Stadium kicks-off at 7pm, Swans supporters are encouraged to purchase their tickets early to avoid queues on the night of the game. Early bird prices are available online HERE or by contacting 0844 815 6665.
Early bird prices:
Adults - £3
Concessions - £1
Matchday prices:
Adults - £5
Concessions - £1
*Concessions are classed as seniors (60+), students and U16s.
