Leverkusen coach Martinez backs Andrich after 4-0 win: ‘I’m happy with him’ | OneFootball

Bayer Leverkusen returned to winning ways with a 4-0 victory over 1.FC Union Berlin, and coach Carles Martínez offered firm backing for Robert Andrich.

“He played 20 minutes today because he deserved it and had trained well,” Carles Martínez told Sport BILD after the game. “We have a lot of competition for places. I’m happy with him. I’m sure he’ll be in the starting eleven another day. Rob wants exactly the same thing as me – the best for this club. And we’ll give our best to achieve our goals.”

Only days earlier, the 31-year-old had been viewed as a likely departure and was stripped of the captaincy. Despite interest from Eintracht Frankfurt and RB Leipzig, Andrich stayed and showed professionalism.

The surprise sale of Exequiel Palacios to Ipswich Town reopened a midfield berth, and Andrich was included in Leverkusen’s Europa League squad. His contract runs until 2028.

After the final whistle against Union, Andrich was visibly moved by the supporters’ response. “It’s very, very nice to hear that [their chants of his name]. It shows that we’re doing a lot of things right, especially with the fans. I’m the kind of guy who can’t really enjoy that sort of thing. But I do realize it’s an honour for me,” the 31-year-old told Sky Germany.

Source: BuLi News

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