Streich demands more from Grifo: "He has to go up for headers"
Although Vincenzo Grifo is often involved when Freiburg get on the scoresheet, he can't be guaranteed to start every game, as he has room for improvement in other areas, says Christian Streich.
After coming off the bench against Juventus earlier this week, Vincenzo Grifo was back in the Freiburg starting line-up for Sunday's 1-1 draw with Mainz.
The 29-year-old had little impact on the game, but Freiburg coach Christian Streich was still pleased with the performance of his attacking talisman.
"Vince tried everything, he fought back. That's why I'm happy," Streich told Kicker.
At the same time, the coach made it clear that despite Grifo's big contribution to Freiburg's goals this season (14 goals, six assists in 35 matches), he can't be sure that he will start every game. In terms of physicality and aggressiveness, Grifo doesn't always offer enough, according to Streich.
"He is a great footballer. But in some places it's hard, a lot of teams play with so much athleticism, in 3-5-2 and one-on-one all over the pitch. He has to deal with that, otherwise it will be difficult. He has to go up for headers.