Hoeness backs skipper Undav against media criticism before Champions League opener
VfB Stuttgart head coach Sebastian Hoeness has defended captain Deniz Undav following recent media scrutiny ahead of their Champions League tie.
Ahead of VfB Stuttgart's opening Champions League fixture against Viking FK, head coach Sebastian Hoeness has launched a passionate defence of his captain, Deniz Undav. The forward had faced media scrutiny following quiet performances in Stuttgart's opening Bundesliga matches against Bayern Munich and 1. FC Koln.
Deniz Undav is a huge part of the reason we are playing in the Champions League. Everyone needs to understand that. Sebastian Hoeness
Hoeness dismissed the negative coverage, insisting that claims of poor performance were exaggerated. The manager highlighted Undav's tactical awareness and leadership as vital assets for the squad, rejecting the 'catastrophic' label applied by some reports. "He is our captain and someone who understands and reads the game unbelievably well. He is always valuable to us," Hoeness said.
Despite recent Achilles tendon issues, Undav trained without problems and is available for the midweek clash at the MHPArena. While several teammates remain sidelined, the captain is expected to lead the line as Stuttgart looks to make a strong impression on their return to the continental stage. Hoeness urged his side to maintain a high tempo to dictate the game against their match-fit Norwegian opponents.