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New faces at Hertha BSC

There were some new faces to be seen at Hertha's first day of training on Thursday, June 26.

Marc Stein and Brazilians Kaka and Rodnei were on the pitch for the entire training session. Maximilian Nicu was suffering from a calf problem and remained indoors.

Favre sings Rodnei's praises

Rodnei is a 22-year old defender who transferred to Berlin from Polish first-division side Jagiellonia Bialystok. In December, the 1.9-metre tall player participated in a tryout, and didn't fail to impress.

"He's very tough in duels", said coach Lucien Favre. He's inked a deal for one year, with the option of two more years.

Lima loan

Srdjan Lakic was also present at the training session. But Sporting Director Dieter Hoeneß pointed out that "Lakic is holding talks with other clubs. And so there could be some changes." And Hoeneß explained the absence of Mineiro and André Lima. "Mineiro's situation still isn't resolved. As for André Lima, it seems we're going to send him on loan to Brazil for a year. There are two solid offers from Brazil."

Arne Friedrich, Joe Simunic and Lukasz Piszczek are not yet in training because they're playing for Germany in EURO 2008. Friedrich will be on vacation for three weeks after Sunday's final. Simunic will arrive on July 12, and Piszczek on July 1.

Lucio's rehab program ends on June 29. Then the Brazilian will proceed to the training camp. As well as the players already under contract, Hertha are expected to acquire another striker and an offensive midfielder.

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