By Rune Gjerulff@runegjerulff

Niklas Süle defends himself from criticism

Niklas Süle has responded to criticism over his performances for Bayern München this season.
Niklas Süle.
Niklas Süle.Photo: Granada, CC-by-SA 4.0
Bayern München centre-back Niklas Süle has defended himself from criticism over his performances this season.

"On the whole, I'm not dissatisfied. I don't think the season has been as bad for me as it has been made out to be in public," Süle said in an interview with Süddeutsche Zeitung.

The 25-year-old has no problem with taking the blame when he makes mistakes, but feels he has been unfairly singled out for criticism on at least one occasion.

For example, Bayern CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge publicly blamed the defender for Amin Younes' goal in Frankfurt's 2-1 win over the Bavarians last month.

"To be mentioned for such a goal, regardless of who does it, bothers me," said Süle.

"When I have a bad game, and it's written about, I'll be the first to say, 'rightly so'. But I don't have to take the blame for everything and leave it uncommented.

"For example, I was involved in every goal we conceded in our 2-3 defeat to Gladbach. That was a bad game from me, and it shouldn't be an excuse that I was injured for so long. But sometimes things go well, and sometimes they don't.

"I don't have to take the blame for other goals like the one in Frankfurt as a scapegoat for us losing there."

Süle's contract with Bayern expires in 2022, and it remains unclear if he will sign a new deal.

"Before I have had a private talk with my employer, it's not my style to say anything about it publicly. When the time comes, I'll sit down with my agent and my family to make a decision on what's best for me and my family financially and football wise," said the German international when asked about his contract situation.

Bayern paid €20 million to land Süle from Hoffenheim back in 2017.

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