VfB Stuttgart vs Mainz preview - Stevens still smiling

Stuttgart coach Huub Stevens does not really have a lot to smile about, although that was not so evident when he met the media ahead of his side's clash with Mainz this weekend.

With a smile from ear to ear, it would have been hard to deduct that the Dutchman's club were at the bottom of the Bundesliga with three games to go, and that he is almost certain to be out of a job in the summer with speculation claiming his successor has already signed a contract.

"Well, it's got to be enjoyable really," he said. "At the end of the day, not many people get this opportunity at all."

It is an opportunity that perhaps few would wish to have, considering Stuttgart's current plight.

Yet Stevens would not have it any other way.

"Football's a beautiful game," he said. "And then you get the fantastic support we are getting from our fans too."

Indeed, the Mercedes-Benz Arena is going to be sold out once again as the city and the region get behind the club's quest to avoid relegation this season.

Visiting coach Markus Schmidt says he would not expect it any other way, even if it still surprises him to see Stuttgart in their current position.

"They always play with such courage and determination, and when you see them play you never really think that they are so far down at the bottom," he said.

"Sometimes, you really cannot quite fathom it.

"It's bound to be a really tight affair and a big challenge for us."

Schmidt really could have reason to smile come the final whistle since his side would be safe with a win.