Eric Smith and Connor Metcalfe have reclaimed their starting spots at FC St. Pauli. The World Cup participants made their joint comeback in the 1-0 home win against VfL Wolfsburg last weekend and are expected to start again on Sunday away at Energie Cottbus.

Head coach Marcel Rapp confirmed the plans after the latest matchday. "The two played well without any question," said the 47-year-old. "Therefore, you can assume that both will be allowed to play." The 29-year-old Smith regained his position through technical ability, overview, and composure on the ball, while the 26-year-old Metcalfe benefited from the absence of the injured Branimir Hrgota.

Rapp Praises Cottbus Boss

The upcoming opponent Energie Cottbus is coached by Claus-Dieter 'Pele' Wollitz. Rapp expressed great respect for the work of the 61-year-old. To fail once with Cottbus, stick with it, and then get promoted is worthy of all honour, said the St. Pauli boss. The last meeting between the two clubs was over twelve years ago. In the 2013/14 season, they drew 1-1, with Lennart Thy scoring for the Kiezkicker.

The team from Millerntor currently sits in ninth place in the 2. Bundesliga with six points. The away game on Sunday (1:30 PM, Sky) against the seventh-placed side is a key opportunity to end a run of just one win in the last five league games. The full schedule of upcoming tasks can be found on our fixtures page.

Squad Worries Ease

The personnel situation at St. Pauli is easing. Alongside the returnees Smith and Metcalfe, Branimir Hrgota, who recently struggled with heel problems, as well as the previously ill Marcus Mathisen (30) and new father Tomoya Ando (27) are also available again. These reinforcements come at the right time to secure squad depth for the challenges ahead. The full squad can always be viewed on our squad page.

A curious incident involving Eric Smith in the Wolfsburg match caused some discussion. The midfielder had to leave the pitch for one minute but received no treatment, a new rule since the World Cup aims to prevent feigned treatment and time-wasting. Rapp supports this change, as it reduces unnecessary calls for the doctor. A full away section is expected in Cottbus on Sunday, and the team aims to send their fans home with three points.

First reported at Bild Sport