Philipp Treu earns Jonathan Tah praise after impressive Germany debut
Germany’s search for a regular right-back has prompted plenty of debate in recent years. Anyone watching Philipp Treu against the Netherlands on Thursday, however, might have wondered what all the fuss was about. The Freiburg defender produced an assured debut that suggested he could provide a lasting solution.
Tireless running, a willingness to get forward and clear decision-making marked Treu's first appearance for his country. There was a confidence about his performance rarely associated with a player making his senior international bow.
The 25-year-old looked comfortable on the biggest stage – something that probably came as little surprise to his new national-team coach.
Klopp had already spoken enthusiastically about the Freiburg full-back when announcing his squad. “Philipp gets up and down the flank, no matter what time of day or night it is,” he 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?’”
Indeed, Treu's composed display on Thursday offered a compelling argument that he has the qualities to settle the debate.
However, that does not guarantee him another start against Greece on Sunday. VfB Stuttgart's Josha Vagnoman is another strong option waiting for his opportunity on the right of defence. Even so, Treu certainly did his chances no harm.
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Treu’s contribution did not escape his teammates’ attention either. Without even being asked about his fellow defender, Jonathan Tah singled him out for praise after the match.
“The way he got up and down the touchline was incredible," the Bayern Munich centre-back said. "For a first international appearance, that was really excellent – and exactly what we need.”
When those words were put to him in an interview with ARD, Treu appeared a little flattered. “That has to give you a boost,” he said.
For Treu, his debut should help calm the discussion about Germany’s right-back position. On Sunday, Vagnoman may get the opportunity to do the very same with a standout display against Greece.
