Germany’s search for a reliable right-back has been a recurring topic, but Philipp Treu gave the national team plenty to like in his first senior international appearance against the Netherlands.
The Freiburg defender started at right-back in Germany’s 1-1 draw with the Netherlands on Thursday and impressed with his energy, willingness to get forward and decision-making. Treu looked comfortable despite making his debut on one of the biggest stages in international football.
His performance also earned
praise from one of his Germany teammates.
Jonathan Tah singled out Treu after the match, praising the 25-year-old’s work up and down the right flank, noted on Bundesliga.com.
“The way he got up and down the touchline was incredible. For a first international appearance, that was really excellent – and exactly what we need,” Tah said.
Treu was understandably pleased to hear those words from the FC Bayern center-back.
“That has to give you a boost,” Treu said in an interview with ARD, as captured by Bundesliga.com.
Treu’s performance also comes after Germany head coach Jürgen Klopp spoke highly of him when announcing his squad. Klopp highlighted the Freiburg defender’s ability to consistently cover ground on the flank.
“Philipp gets up and down the flank, no matter what time of day or night it is,” Klopp said. “In Germany, we talk about not having any right-backs, and there’s someone playing there who must be asking himself: ‘What are they talking about?’”
Treu did little to hurt his chances of earning another opportunity with his performance against the Netherlands.
That does not mean he is guaranteed another start, however. VfB Stuttgart’s Josha Vagnoman remains another option for Klopp at right-back and could get his opportunity when Germany faces Greece on Sunday.
For now, though, Treu has made a strong first impression with the national team. His debut provided another talking point for Klopp as Germany continues to assess its options at right-back.
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