"He won't be able to leave me out next time!" - Raum sends message to Klopp
| Brajan Gruda and David Raum for RB Leipzig. | Photo: Stuart Franklin / Getty Images. |
RB Leipzig enjoyed a convincing 5-2 victory over FC Augsburg, but David Raum had an additional reason to celebrate. After being left out of Jürgen Klopp's latest Germany squad, the defender used his goal to send a message and vowed to make the national team coach reconsider his decision.
The Leipzig defender admitted that his goal against Augsburg carried some extra motivation after weeks of speculation and media coverage surrounding his national team future.
"There was a little bit of frustration behind the goal. A lot has been written in the media over the past few weeks, which, to put it bluntly, has really annoyed me. So I responded with my goal," Raum explained.
The defender also revealed that he had spoken directly with Klopp following the squad announcement. Despite disagreeing with the decision, Raum emphasised that he respects the national team coach's choice.
"Klopp called me. A lot of newspapers had already written various things about what he supposedly said. I respect his decision, and I told him that. After being involved for a long time, this is the first time I've been left out in a while. I also told him that I'll respond with my performances so that next time he won't be able to leave me out."
Raum added that he wished Klopp and the national team success, stressing that he wants Germany to move forward and become a team the country can be proud of. He also made clear that he intends to contribute again in the future.
Finally, the 28-year-old praised teammate Brajan Gruda, who was included in the latest Germany squad.
"Brajan showed today why he fully deserves his place in the national team. He played brilliantly and has earned it. He should enjoy the experience and perform for Germany just as well as he does here."
