Sunday 31 August 2014 12:21, UK
Stuttgart coach Armin Veh claims the burden of expectation is hampering his side after they were beaten 2-0 at home by Cologne on Saturday.
eh picked up the Stuttgart reins from Huub Stevens this summer after the Dutchman saved the club from relegation with only a match to spare last term.
Since Veh had led the Swabians to the title during his last spell in charge, his return had given rise to a new wave of optimism.
However, he says this is putting unnecessary pressure on his team.
"We are unable to cope with it," Veh said. "We should maybe consider whether we're actually as strong as many people think we are.
"I cannot fault my team's desire, but they're just not playing the ball round correctly, but that's football.
"Cologne were just cleverer than us."
For Cologne, it was a first win since returning to the top flight this summer, 903 days after their last top-flight victory.
"We're very happy with the way the lads played today," said their coach Peter Stoger.
"We defended skilfully and disturbed our opponents' game. We were efficient taking our chances and we're pleased to be unbeaten after two games of the season."
