Report: Frank Kramer is losing the faith of his Schalke squad
Sport Bild reports that Schalke manager Frank Kramer is losing the faith of many of his star players.
Schalke have endured a rough start to their returning campaign in the Bundesliga, especially compared to Werder Bremen, who achieved promotion with them from the 2.Bundesliga last year. The contrasting results for both sides so far this season could partly be down to the men in the dugouts.
While Bremen have shown bravery thus far in the campaign, Schalke have looked uninspiring. Kramer is being accused of a defensive style of play, and when the side does venture forward it is consisting of too many long balls.
Kramer has internally argued that given the number of injuries Schalke have suffered so far that the change in tactics is not possible. He does have support in the dressing room, however, from boyhood Schalke fan Tom Krauss, per Sport Bild.
Despite Kramer imploring Krauss to speak to Simon Terodde, Danny Latza and Mike Buskens they still remain critical of the coach, according to the report. Marius Bulter, Rodrigo Zalazar, Thomas Ouwejan and Alex Kral are reportedly also among the growing list of players and coaches questioning Kramer.
The club management gave their support to Kramer after the defeat to Bayer Leverkusen on Saturday, stating that they expect "an improved performance against Hoffenheim in all respects." Thus, the performance against Hoffenheim on Friday night could prove pivotal to Kramer's future.