Mirko Slomka: 'Freiburg are strong candidates for Europe'

Hannover coach Mirko Slomka has admitted that Friday night's opponents Freiburg are in a good position to qualify for Europe this season.

Slomka's side are four points behind Freiburg in ninth and will need to put a strong run together to get themselves in contention for the Europa League.

"Freiburg obviously have a real chance of representing German football in the Europa League next year," Slomka told Bundesliga.com.

"Our goal at the beginning of the season was to be in the top half of the table with a chance, if all went well, of grabbing a Europa League spot."

The game kicks off at 7.30pm on Friday night.