Werder Bremen head coach Robin Dutt has insisted that his team should be optimistic ahead of the new Bundesliga season.

Dutt only managed to record 10 victories in his first campaign in charge as the club finished 12th, but he is certain that his players deserve more recognition.

"Werder Bremen are being made out to be too small," the 29-year-old Kreiszeitung Syke. "I do believe that, with the opportunities we've got here, we have got what it takes to challenge."

Despite backing his side to surprise their critics when the season gets underway next weekend, Dutt has dismissed suggestions that European qualification could be a possibility.

"It would be a big surprise. For that to happen, really so much would have to come together," he added.

Bremen kick off their season against Hertha Berlin on August 23.