Germany forward Kai Havertz has said that despite facing criticism for his goal output, he is satisfied with his performances in the striker role.
Havertz started all three group games for Germany at the Euros, but apart from a goal and assist in the opening match against Scotland, the Arsenal forward couldn’t add to his goal tally in the tournament.
In contrast, substitute forward Niclas Füllkrug has scored two goals in the tournament, including a crucial equaliser against Switzerland. Havertz has been criticised for his lack of goals, but he insists that the role of the modern striker is more than just scoring goals, using his fellow forwards as examples.
Speaking to German television channel ARD, Havertz said: “Football has evolved a lot in recent years, who are the real classic forwards in European football today? Maybe just Haaland. In my opinion, not even Kane is a classic striker, despite his superb finishing skills, he doesn’t just stay in the box waiting for the ball. That’s why I don’t understand the discussion about my position. In the last six months, I’ve been very successful as a striker, I feel comfortable and want to continue playing in this position in the long term.”
It is uncertain whether Havertz will keep his starting spot for Germany’s last-16 clash against Denmark, as Füllkrug has shown his worth to manager Hansi Flick. Among European players who have played at least 100 minutes in World Cup and European Championship matches, only Poland’s Ernst Willimowski has a better goalscoring record (one every 30 minutes) than the 31-year-old Füllkrug (one every 35 minutes).
Havertz added on the issue of his position: “No one has a guaranteed starting position, but I’m a player who needs confidence. Working hard in training and giving it my all in games is important to me. I can demand all that from myself. Every player wants to play, but ultimately it’s the manager who decides. Denmark have a very good team, with many excellent players. It will be a tough game, but I’m confident in Germany, I think we can win.”
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