New Schalke coach Dimitrios Grammozis not 'expecting miracles' from Matthew Hoppe
Schalke coach Dimitrios Grammozis has given his backing to Matthew Hoppe, but doesn't want to promise him a starting spot.
New Schalke 04 coach Dimitrios Grammozis has praised Matthew Hoppe for his performances this season, but says he can't guarantee the 19-year-old striker a regular starting place.
Hoppe, who has five goals in 13 Bundesliga games this season, has held on to his spot in the starting eleven despite failing to score in his last six league outings.
Whether he will make his 11th consecutive league start against Mainz on Friday in Grammozis' first game in charge remains to be seen.
"Matthew has done really well in the games he has played in so far. Looking at the way he has scored his goals, he hasn't just been lucky, but has shown real quality," said Grammozis ahead of the game.
"Of course, you can't expect miracles from such a young player. But it's great to see how he throws himself into challenges and that he's making a lot of runs in behind. Those are things that are important to the team.
"I have several different options up front, though. Benito Raman could play there as well, and we also have the option of playing with a number 10 a bit further behind."