Rose reveals details of extra motivational talks with Openda
Following a long-awaited command performance from Belgian striker Loïs Openda, RB Leipzig trainer Marco Rose revealed that he had engaged in some extra discussions with the 24-year-old over the course of the training week.
With 21 league goals and seven assists (only Bayern's Harry Kane has amassed more scorer points this year) RB Leipzig's blockbuster summer signing Loïs Openda hasn't been a bust by any stretch of the imagination. The Belgian international's tendency to blow easy finishes and perform well below his personal xG level have nevertheless given Bundesliga watchers plenty of reason to question his first season in the German top footballing flight. Openda's German club team have performed well below their level all year.
Openda finally delivered what certainly counted as a command performance in Saturday's 4-1 win over SC Freiburg. The former RC Lens striker scored two goals and bagged two assists, registering his name on all four of the German Red Bull tallies. Openda's game was still far from perfect as he did concede a handball penalty. Matters might have turned out differently had Lucas Höler managed to convert from the spot in the 41st. Saturday was nevertheless a day for rejoicing.
RB sporting director Rouven Schröder lauded Openda for an "unorthodox style" that still produced "the results we've been looking for". The player himself called it "a great day for both me and the team" and vowed to help the Saxons achieve Champions' League qualification. Speaking at his post-match press conference after the vital win, RB trainer Marco Rose revealed that he had engaged in some extra conversations with Openda over the course of the training week.
"He came to me this week and we had some talks," Rose said at the presser, "He asked me why it was that he always the one not permitted to play the full 90 minutes. I told him it's because we have a top class roster full of guys who want playing time. There were naturally a few small things I wanted to motivate him with as well."
"And today he scored two goals and assisted on two others," Rose continued, "and also worked very hard against the ball. He was very active in the match over nearly the entire course of the full 90. If he plays like this, he'll certainly be welcome to play 120 minutes."