Is Nuremberg the favourite to win the cup final?

Michael Roth

I think it's better to play down expectations. We'll let Stuttgart, the German champions, take on the role of favourite. If we pull off a surprise then it will be all the sweeter.

You were happy enough just to have reached the final. You said that 25 years of disappointment were now forgotten.

Michael Roth

The semi final was great. It was a fantastic performance from our team. We've always had problems with Frankfurt but it was a great performance to make it this far in the competition.

Nuremberg ended the season in sixth place. The best result in 20 years. How do you view the state of the club at the moment?

Michael Roth

The club has gone through hard times. We were hit hard in every respect. The club was in serious financial difficulties. But I have helped Nuremberg get back on track. Financially we are in a better situation than almost at any time. Maybe since we last won the German championship.

Your position as President is somewhat unique in Germany. You could almost be compared with Abramovich at Chelsea.

Michael Roth

You can't compare it because he owns the club. I don't own anything. If I don't get voted in at the next AGM in the Autumn then I will have to go. The only I'll have to show for it is the money I pumped into the club. And of course the passion I showed for this club.

Just how much money did you pump into the club?

Michael Roth

I've never added it up, thank God.

Do you think it's more than 10 million.

Michael Roth

It's certainly not much less.

But you like to reward people. Whether it's with your carpets or when you let the whole stadium in for nothing on your birthday. You enjoy that, don't you?

Michael Roth

I think you have to stay close to the people. Life is hard enough as it is. The Bundesliga is a rough and tumble business. There are good times but mostly times are tough.

You're talking about the human side of football. But you are often called Napoleon. Why do you think you're called that?

Michael Roth

That's because you can't trust anyone in this business. Everyone tries to get one up on the others. You can't just turn up naively with a big smile on your face. You have to be hard as nails.

Hans Meyer

Mr Roth has also gone through a few changes himself. At the moment he loves all coaches.

Hans Meyer has been a dream come true. What makes him different to all the other coaches?

Michael Roth

You listen to him. And you do what he says. That's not always the case. In fact that's not often what happens. Especially players who think they know everything and can do everything better. The coach is the boss. And you have to listen to him and do what you're told.

Are you going to remain calm at the match on Saturday evening?

Michael Roth

I'll try. My wife will be there. She's normally more excited than I am. At least I try to not let people see how nervous I am.

What can Stuttgart do to beat Nuremberg?

Michael Roth

They can do whatever they want. They won't be able to beat us.

Will you hand out some presents again?

Michael Roth

The coach has seen a carpet he likes. It's a real beauty. He has let me know that he's interested. Maybe I'll fulfill his wish.