TEAMTalk’s James Marshment has expressed his surprise over Leeds United defender Robin Koch’s omission from the German national side after his ‘exceptional’ performances this year.
The Whites have had a decent start to the season as they sit ninth in the Premier League table after six games, picking up two wins, two draws and two losses, along with a goal difference of zero.
While a big reason for this start is due to some of the new signings that came through the door in the summer such as Luis Sinisterra, Brenden Aaronson and Tyler Adams, some of their more experienced players like Koch have also been impressive.
With the World Cup just around the corner, the latest international break is due to start soon and teams have been announcing their squads. It is a great chance for players to show their worth ahead of the tournament, however, Koch will not get his chance despite his good form, which surprised Marshment.
Taking to Twitter, he said: “Have to feel for Robin Koch not making the cut here…. his form for Leeds this season (Brentford game aside – when he wasn’t the biggest failure) has been quite exceptional and the most consistent since his move. Can understand Bella Kotchap getting the nod, less so Thilo Kehrer.”
Have to feel for Robin Koch not making the cut here…. his form for Leeds this season (Brentford game aside – when he wasn't the biggest failure) has been quite exceptional and the most consistent since his move.
Can understand Bella Kotchap getting the nod, less so Thilo Kehrer https://t.co/GTcLDdab99— James Marshment (@marshyleeds) September 15, 2022
TIF Thoughts on Koch…
While the Germany squad has some big names picked – including in defence with the likes of Antonio Rudiger, Nico Schlotterbeck and Niklas Sule called up, it does seem egregious that Koch was not picked by Hansi Flick over someone like Thilo Kehrer.
The West Ham man has not started very well this season – giving away a penalty on his debut – whereas Koch has been a hugely important figure for Leeds, starting every game this season and recently captaining the side against Brentford.
He also ranks in the 96th percentile for pressures per game, in the 75th for aerials duels won and in the 67th for blocks, while Kehrer ranks in the 87th, 7th and 21st in the same areas across the past year, according to FBref.
There is still time for Koch to bag himself a spot in the World Cup team, but it is going to be a lot more difficult now, which certainly seems very unfair on the defender.
Should Koch have been picked by Germany?No
Yes
|