How much of a rest does he need? He's played F**k all!! He's a professional footballer playing at the highest level in the most active part of the pitch and played there week in, week out in Germany.
You are aware that he had a foot injury playing for Germany U-21's aren't you?
You are aware that it set his fitness back around six weeks aren't you?
You are aware that he's still having problems with his foot aren't you?
He's maybe half a stone over his proper playing weight.
Not much by any standard other than that of a professional athlete, and it showed tonight, because at this level it's all about fine margins.
Slow to turn, slow to get into his stride with a lack of his usual acceleration, a bit slow controlling the ball which is always a dead giveaway and didn't get anywhere near his best speed when sprinting.
You might see it as nitpicking, but these are all signs that a player is not quite up to speed.
He's not far off though, and when he gets there we'll see that little burst of acceleration again that punches holes in the opposition midfield.
At full fitness, he'll be one of our strongest runners.
Plenty of time for him.
There's no need to rush him back because that can cause more injuries.
I still say he's going to be a beast for us.
Just because I point out that he is not at his best, because of a couple of injuries, doesn't mean I don't rate him.
Quite the opposite in fact. If his development continues, he'll be another worldie along with Markovic.
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