Hofmann confident of World Cup prospects after comeback: "I have good recovery muscles."
Borussia Mönchengladbach's Jonas Hofmann left his World Cup prospects in little doubt with a spectacular opening goal and a full 90-minute shift on Friday night.
Having passed both the performance and endurance tests, the 30-year-old expressed confidence that his recent shoulder injury won't endanger his chances of heading to Qatar.
Having passed both the performance and endurance tests, the 30-year-old expressed confidence that his recent shoulder injury won't endanger his chances of heading to Qatar.
| Jonas Hofmann. | Photo: Borussia Mönchengladbach |
The message? He's back in full.
"To come in like that, right away with a goal, is sensational," a delighted Hofmann noted afterwards in the mixed zone, "That's a great way to start."
When conducting his post-match interview, Hofmann did have a bandage protecting his damaged left shoulder. The German national team player admitted that there was still some pain there, particularly after he fell back down on it whilst contesting an aerial duel in the first-half.
In any event, the potential call up for the coming World Cup wished to emphasize that there was nothing to worry about. Using a term common in the German pub scene (and at Udo Lindenberg concerts), Hofmann described matters as "alles Paletti" (loosely translated to "all is chill").
Hofmann's trainer let it be known that he expected his player to head to Qatar.
"His finish at 1-0 was outstanding," BMG trainer Daniel Farke remarked at the post-match-presser, "He's a difference-maker. Given the role he plays, I trust Hansi Flick. He knows his qualities inside out and will also make the right decisions. Jonas is definitely always a good choice."
Bundestrainer Flick seems to have cooled slightly to the idea of using Hofmann as a makeshift right-back, but may certainly wish to take the 16-times-capped international along at his natural position as an attacking winger.
Hofmann left no doubt that he wished to go, as evidenced by the way his injury diagnosis some 17 days ago. The nature of his shoulder injury could have seen him sidelined for 4-5 weeks.
"Waiting on the MRI result, I was devastated," Hofmann divulged, "In terms of the sensation [of the injury], it was the worst pain that I ever experienced. After discussions with the medics, I was able to understand better and see that the healing process was different for everyone."
How was he able to come back so soon?
"With previous injuries, I've always been able to return before the estimated date," Hofmann explained reassuringly, "So I know that I have good recovery muscles."