Nagelsmann questions Anton Stach as Leeds midfielder’s World Cup hopes fade | OneFootball

Julian Nagelsmann has cast doubt on Anton Stach’s World Cup prospects, delivering a cutting verdict on the Leeds United midfielder.

"He’s doing well there, but he’s not exceptionally strong in the air and not a top ball-winner either." He told Kicker.

The Germany head coach largely views him at the back rather than in the advanced midfield role Daniel Farke has often given him. "…his best position at Hoffenheim was the central role in a back three, from where he could drop into the No 6 position."

The 27-year-old, capped twice and last called up in June 2022, moved to Elland Road aiming to push for this summer’s tournament. He has started 22 of his 23 Premier League appearances in a promising debut campaign.

Stach has impressed with four goals, three from direct free-kicks, and three assists, while breaking lines in transition. He can also drop in defensively and featured 13 times at centre-back for Hoffenheim last season. He was at the top of the club’s summer wishlist when it came to midfielders.

"There will be decisions - I can already reveal that now - which probably will not be met with great understanding," "Not from the player, but also not from the wider public. Because perhaps a player who is not planned to be in our starting XI is a regular starter and key performer at his club."

Source: Leeds Live