The loan of Rasmus Kristensen fills two vacancies in the squad. The Dane is not just an experienced, robust right-back. Coach Dino Toppmöller is also hoping that the new signing will provide leadership
In the position of right-back, Eintracht was not well-staffed last season. Aurelio Buta (27) lacked consistency and consistency in defending. Tuta (25), a trained central defender, also played with light and shade when he occasionally played on the right in the back four. Veteran Timothy Chandler (34), an experienced, positive type, is still important for the atmosphere in the team, but is no longer considered for a regular place. As the line-up at left-back is not ideal either, Toppmöller opted to play with a back three and two wing-backs.
“The squad must not become too big. We can’t insure water against fire in every position. But if there is a player who can help us immediately and take us to another level, we will certainly look into it.” He has now apparently found such a player in Rasmus Kristensen. The loan of the 27-year-old has changed the signs with regard to the question: three-man or four-man backline?
“Rasmus marches ahead “
The Dane, 1.87 meters tall and equipped with a broad back, is what you call an edge. With his experience from the Premier League, Serie A, Champions League and national team, he could help Eintracht straight away. “Rasmus is a player who leads the way with a positive charisma and inspires others. With his mentality, leadership and experience, he will help us and give us the punch we need as a group”, The coach continues: “We already have a lot of great footballers in the squad, now Rasmus brings in a different element because he works the soccer a bit more. The fans in the stadium also like to see that. We’re hoping for a lot from him, but he also has to face the competition. “
Toppmöller continues to focus on flexibility
However, there will still not be a fixed basic order. Toppmöller wants to retain the flexibility of the previous season. “I would prefer to play from a back four. But there will also be games in which we defend with five men and build up with four. Conversely, we will sometimes build up with three players and defend with four. It also depends on the personnel and the opponent’s style of play,” explains the 43-year-old. In games with a three-man/five-man backline, Kristensen is also an alternative in the center of defence, Toppmöller says: “In a five-man backline, he could also play in the half-back position. “
According to Krösche, Eintracht were already looking at Kristensen three years ago. “We are happy that it has now worked out. We had very good talks and sensed that he really wanted to join us. Rasmus is a robust player who is strong in tackles and has a clear full-back profile, but can also play as a central defender,” explained the sporting director. The timing of the signing is good: Eintracht leave for their training camp in the USA on Monday, where the main focus will be on defensive processes
