Deniz Undav ready for comeback: starting eleven or joker against Wolfsburg?

Deniz Undav ready for comeback: starting eleven or joker against Wolfsburg?

Deniz Undav, the 29-year-old striker from VfB Stuttgart, has taken part in training again after a long injury break and feels in top shape for his comeback in the Bundesliga. According to the Stuttgarter Nachrichten he is ready to play against VfL Wolfsburg on Saturday at 3:30 p.m. This is particularly important as VfB will have to do without a number of players - including Ermedin Demirovic and Jamie Leweling, who will both be missing due to injury. Coach Sebastian Hoeneß is faced with the decision whether Undav will be in the starting line-up or come into the game as a joker.

With Demirovic and Leweling out, it is becoming increasingly crucial for Hoeneß to find the best offensive solution. The coach insists the challenge isn't just in one game - three consecutive English weeks lie ahead, including a crucial Europa League game against Fenerbahce Istanbul the following Thursday. The game on Saturday will be a benchmark for everyone involved to see what form the players actually have.

Undav's return and development

Deniz Undav recently made his DFB starting eleven debut, where he not only scored a goal but also provided an assist in a thrilling game against the Netherlands. This game ended in a 2-2 draw and the positive feedback from coach Hoeneß is promising. He watched Undav's performance on television and was pleased with the "good impression" the striker left. However, Hoeneß remains cautious about Undav's fitness. He explained that Undav is not yet at 100 percent, but emphasized that the match fitness generated is crucial for the upcoming games. Before his return to the Bundesliga, Undav looked tired and in poor physical condition - which put a strain on him mentally.

In addition to the team's injury problems, Undav's unique role in the squad could be crucial. Hoeneß joked about their connection, and the dynamic between coach and player seems to be a positive aspect for the team.

The situation in women's football

Aside from the men's Bundesliga, there are also current developments in women's football. The eighth VBG sports report provides systematic insights into injuries among female footballers for the first time. A Germany-wide study shows that 362 injuries occurred during a season, affecting almost 42% of players. What is particularly striking is that the injury rate is highest for female strikers at 53% and lowest for midfielders at 37%. Knee injuries are the most common, followed by ankle and thigh injuries.

These surveys are important to better understand the challenges and risks associated with women's football. When analyzing the injuries, the influence of the female cycle on such injuries was also considered, although the data in this area is only of limited significance due to the incomplete information provided by the professionals surveyed.

Overall, VfB Stuttgart is facing an exciting time. With Undav's comeback and the challenges in the coming weeks, it remains to be seen how the team will fare. One thing is certain: fans are looking forward to the upcoming games and developments in both men's and women's football.

For more information, read full reports from Stuttgart News, Mercury and VBG.