Storm's all-rounder

“Nobody should believe that he will win in Graz”

Sturm's all-rounder Dimitri Lavalee has even been in action as a goalscorer.

(Bild: Sepp Pail)

Sturm's defensive boss Gregory Wüthrich is suspended - on Sunday against the WAC, the "man for all occasions" in central defense should therefore take the reins. Belgian Dimitri Lavalee has developed into one of the Blackies' greatest all-rounders in a long time.

Defensive midfield, central defense, left back - Dimitri Lavalee has played all positions at Sturm, even all in one game against Rapid. But where does he see himself? "People always ask me that," smiles the 27-year-old man from Liège, "I spent my whole youth playing in central defense or central midfield. Left back is new to me. But I don't find it difficult to adapt, I try to give my best everywhere. The most important thing is the team. I'm happy as soon as I'm on the pitch!"

He likes it in Graz: "I didn't expect it to be so great. The city, the people, everyone at the club - everything is great. The team is young, it's easy to feel at home here."

Sunday against WAC? "As soon as I step onto the pitch, I want to win - in every game! That's also the mentality of the club. We go for the maximum. Especially in Graz, no opponent should only think about getting points. We have to win everything at home!"

In defense inside or outside, or even in midfield. Lavalee puts himself at the service of the team in every position.

(Bild: GEPA pictures)

And the upcoming championship round? "We only have two points less than Salzburg. They're strong, but it's not impossible to catch them. We've drawn twice against them, the points are shared - anything is possible, especially as we're getting stronger and stronger."

And Lille? "We're up against a strong team there, they're fifth in France. But anything is possible, even if we're not the favorites. On a good day, we can achieve a lot."

His contract expires in the summer, but his personal plan is clear: "I want to stay in Graz. I'm really happy here. Sturm have an option to buy me. If they want me, it would be a pleasure."