The poor record in away-games (3 wins) is far from expectations for the only unbeaten team on home soil (5/3).

OVER PERFORMING

Union: The newcomer might still be in danger of being relegated with 20 points after 17 games. Considering the passion (despite the small budget) the team of Swiss coach Urs Fischer has to give, the "team of iron" is more than a pleasant surprise.

To never give up seems the club's motto. Times might be hard for Union it says in the club's hymn, "but so is the team."

Schalke: The Royal Blues enjoy a surprising upswing under former Huddersfield hero David Wagner. Schalke's performance seems far from spectacular, but the 48-year-old has managed to lead the fragile side back to stability.

It remains a challenge to deal with their number one's announcement to join Bayern for the next season. Alexanders Nuebel's decision is causing turmoil among supporters. The 23-year-old might leave in the winter-break.

IN DANGER

Paderborn: It might deserve respect to stick to a risky forwarding football after promoting to the Bundesliga. But 12 points at half-time don't seem enough to secure the first division for the newcomer.

Bremen: Werder is the biggest disappointment as coach Florian Kohfeldt couldn't manage to lead the struggling side to the next level. Instead of reaching an international competition, a fierce battle against relegation is ahead.

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