Stange returns to HSV: more than just a fifth-choice striker? | OneFootball

The first half of the season at SV Elversberg went anything but according to Otto Stange’s wishes. Now the striker is back at HSV.

When the Red Shorts announced on the deadline day of the summer transfer window that the 18-year-old would be heading to Elversberg on loan, many HSV fans were thrilled. The somewhat sleepy provincial club from Saarland, always well-disposed toward young players, has in recent years helped the likes of Nick Woltemade and Fisnik Asslani make their breakthrough. The same was hoped for in Volkspark for what might be their greatest youth prospect.

However, things turned out differently. Stange did not start a single second division match and was used almost exclusively as a substitute option in the final stages. The Hamburg native did this job more than adequately: three goals and two assists in just 181 minutes of play made him one of the most productive attacking players in the league. Yet, even after the winter departure of top scorer Younes Ebnoutalib, the teenager did not receive sufficient playing time.

Nur die Raute – All the latest news about HSV

HSV: Stange immediately involved against Heidenheim?

On the last day of the winter transfer window, HSV therefore pulled the plug and ended the loan early. In return, Immanuel Pherai was sent to Saarland until the end of the season, including a purchase option. “We are in good communication with our colleagues in Elversberg and in this case have found a sensible solution for all parties,” explained sporting director Claus Costa.

But do the Hanseatics even have a use for Stange in the tough relegation battle? So far, his Bundesliga experience is limited to 15 substitute minutes in the city derby against FC St. Pauli (0:2) at the start of the season. In addition, HSV already has four players—Ransford Königsdörffer, Damion Downs, Robert Glatzel, and Yussuf Poulsen—who are at home in the center forward position.

However, Costa does not share the concern that Stange could face another half-season on the bench or even in the stands. “He gives us versatility and depth in attack. He can play several positions there and is already well integrated into the team both athletically and personally,” the 41-year-old made clear during the announcement of the recall.

And indeed: As early as next weekend, Stange could be part of the HSV squad for the third time this season against 1. FC Heidenheim (Saturday, 3:30 p.m.). The youngster is benefiting from the current personnel problems in attack. Costa therefore demands that Stange “brings energy and positivity. He should make a case for more minutes.” His hope: “I think he had an impressive record at Elversberg, considering how much playing time and how many dangerous actions he had. He’s welcome to continue that seamlessly with us.”

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