HSV visit Freiburg: Downs set for quick starting XI debut? | OneFootball

HSV kicks off the new football year with a challenging away game against SC Freiburg. For coach Merlin Polzin, the match is also an initial benchmark.

While large parts of the starting lineup seem set, the professionals are engaged in intense battles for several positions. The striker question surrounding newcomer Damion Downs is particularly exciting.

It was only on Wednesday that the 21-year-old trained with his new teammates for the first time. Nevertheless, he could start in Freiburg from the beginning. Downs, on loan from Southampton until the end of the season, is expected to help HSV with speed, physicality, and presence in the penalty area—exactly what the attack often lacked in the first half of the season.

Polzin expects the newcomer to show in the remaining sessions that he is further along than Ransford Königsdörffer, who has so far fallen significantly short of expectations. If Downs makes this impression, a lightning debut in the starting lineup is quite realistic.

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HSV: Other Positions in Focus

Besides the striker position, other positions are in focus. In the left position of the back three, much points to Daniel Elfadli, who wants to reclaim his starting spot after an injury break. Jordan Torunarigha has represented him well, but the tendency, according to Mopo , favors Elfadli. On the right wing position, William Mikelbrencis currently leads the race against Giorgi Gocholeishvili and Bakery Jatta.

There is also movement offensively. Fábio Vieira is likely to start on the right wing, not least because competitor Rayan Philippe has been unwell in recent days. The other seven positions are considered set in stone. On a positive note: The recently ailing Jean-Luc Dompé will be on the field from the start in Breisgau.

The most exciting question remains: Will Polzin already rely on Downs in attack? In Freiburg, it could soon become apparent whether HSV has gained an additional weapon in the fight for survival with its new striker.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.