Neuhaus expressed optimism that Klos and Cordova can carry Bielefeld
With only three goals from four matches, newly promoted Arminia Bielefeld must demonstrate better offensive prowess should they wish to remain in the German top flight.
While commentators persistently raise the question of how this squad can expect to score goals, trainer Uwe Neuhaus insists he has the answers.
While commentators persistently raise the question of how this squad can expect to score goals, trainer Uwe Neuhaus insists he has the answers.
In a recent interview with German footballing magazine Kicker, Neuhaus explained that it would take time for Sergio Cordova (accustomed to playing center forward) to master a new assignment on the flanks.
"Part of the discussions before we signed him [Cordova], centered around the [new] outside position," Neuhaus noted, "I think he will get better from match to match."
Neuhaus spoke of the specifics Cordovas needed to improve upon. A left flank attacker has additional defensive responsibilities and must learn how to coordinate his play with the left fullback. A player used to rushing forward in centralized lanes also needs time to learn how to find ways into the box at the right moments.
In addition to expressing confidence in Cordova, Neuhaus took time too back his primary attacker and captain Fabian Klos. The 32-year-old has scored an incredible 132 goals for Bielefeld since joining the club in 2011. All of these nevertheless came in the second division.
The veteran, now in the twilight of his career, still seeks his first top flight goal. Examples abound of players who broke scoring records in the lower divisions, yet never could step up their game when playing with Germany's elite.
His 60-year-old head coach, also a top division debutante, keeps his faith in his captain. "He won't be derailed so easily," Neuhaus said, "He has to do his job again. I already witnessed more spritely play from him [last week] against Bayern. I believe he can do the same against Wolfsburg."
