Back on the Field: Münster’s Head Coach Faces Tough Decisions
After a difficult few weeks, Münster’s head coach Sascha Hildmann is faced with some tough decisions ahead of the team’s catch-up game against 1. FC Bocholt on Saturday at 2 p.m. at Stadion am Hünting.
The hospital is finally thinning out, with Simon Scherder and Maximilian Schulze Niehues returning to training after recovering from muscle problems in the thigh and surviving a corona infection, respectively. Alongside the recent full return of Thorben Deters and Manfred “Manni” Kwadwo, Hildmann has almost all of his team back.
However, with several options available, Hildmann finds himself in a bind. Here’s what he’s considering:
Schulze Niehues’ Return Between the Posts
Schulze Niehues is expected to make his return as the team’s goalkeeper on Saturday. Though substitute keeper Tom Müller completed his task without conceding a goal in the last game against Schalke II, Schulze Niehues has only been absent from two league games so far, making him a secure support for the team.
Defensive Challenges for Scherder
Defense veteran Simon Scherder has previously battled for his spot against Robin Ziegele, but this season he’s won his place as the second central defender alongside Alexander Hahn. Despite Niko Koulis representing him well in Schalke’s 3-0 win, Scherder is expected to take back his spot for the upcoming game.
Deters’ Struggles
Thorben Deters’ season hasn’t been going according to plan as he’s only started seven times, and has had to come on as a substitute on eight occasions, scoring three goals. After being sick with coronavirus and also picking up an injury, he is hoping for a chance to shine as a substitute against Bocholt.
Kwadwo’s Plight
Manni Kwadwo hasn’t had it easy since moving from third division Waldhof Mannheim to Hammer Straße in the summer of 2021. After only making 12 short appearances, he’s missed a staggering 54 league games due to muscle and tendon problems. Although feeling fit once again, the competition on the flanks is still intense.
Teklab’s Tireless Comeback
Henok Teklab has been tirelessly working towards his comeback, even months after a cruciate ligament rupture in September 2021. Though he’s been back in training for almost two weeks, he remains a long way from his ultimate goal of returning in this season’s series. His comeback will depend on the team’s progress towards their promotion goals.
Despite the challenges, Münster is committed to delivering the best performance possible in their upcoming game against Bocholt. Only time will tell how the tough decisions made by Hildmann play out on the field.
