Julian Nagelsmann praises Germany super-sub Niclas Füllkrug after latest heroics

The last time Germany won a major international trophy, they featured a goal-scoring super-sub who won a place in the XI by the later stages of the knockouts. That was Miroslav Klose in 2014. Could Borussia Dortmund striker Niclas Füllkrug be the man for Die Mannschaft, 10 years on?

He certainly looks it. After scoring a goal for gravy against Scotland in the tournament opener, Füllkrug added a crucial stoppage time equalizer on Sunday against Switzerland to send Germany top of Group A.

“He scored again — a good goal,” Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann said after the match (via @iMiaSanMia).

Nagelsmann did address perhaps the elephant in the room — the selection of Arsenal FC’s Kai Havertz, goal-less from open play in three games, over Füllkrug and his fox-in-the-box poaching instincts.

“It’s important to have players who can score decisive goals coming on as substitutes. We analyze the opponents in order to pick the starting line-up, and then you can bring in different players from the bench,” Nagelsmann is quoted as saying (again via @iMiaSanMia).

Füllkrug may have his work cut out for him to make the starting lineup — but Germany may need him still if it wants to win the EUROs.

Missed the Germany-Switzerland match, or can’t get enough of the action? Check out our post-game podcast! Samrin and Cyler break down the reasons for Germany’s struggles, what to make of the result, and check in on the latest Bayern Munich transfers news. Listen here below or on Spotify!

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