Schalke before turbulent weeks: Kramer should increasingly rely on these players

After the home defeat against FC Augsburg and the style of play that has now been loudly criticized, Schalke 04 is facing important and probably quite turbulent weeks. Because of this, but also because of injuries, it is time for Frank Kramer to increasingly rely on certain players.

Schalke threaten restless weeks. The home defeat against has already caused a lot of disappointment. Both the three points given and the style of play were grounds for criticism.

In the rest of October, difficult games await the Gelsenkirchen team. First it’s against , then in the league and in the DFB Cup against , before the duels with and follow. All challenging games in which the royal blues need as many successful experiences as possible in order not to slip into the table cellar.

So it is now time for Frank Kramer to make one or the other personnel decision. On the one hand, he has to take some players out of the starting XI. On the other hand, previous bench pressers have to be given more playing time if a style of play is finally to be established that can also ensure goals and more ball possession.

Injuries and problems in the game: Kramer has to trust Schalke more

1. Leo Greiml

A decision for Leo Greiml looks like a no-brainer given Sepp van den Berg’s injury. But his advancement is probably less set in stone than one would initially think.

After all, Kramer is a fan of Henning Matriciani. Although – like on Sunday – he shows again and again that he doesn’t really have the class for the Bundesliga, the coach is sticking with him in the first eleven. Mehmet Aydin even had to stand in line when Cedric Brunner was out.

Since Matriciani is actually more of a central than an outside defender, he is certainly an option for the coach. But: Greiml absolutely has to play now.

The Austrian has already shown in several substitutions and in the friendly during the international break that he has put his cruciate ligament rupture behind him and that he has what it takes for the Bundesliga. Despite his young age of 21, he already plays calmly, is strong in tackles and has a good build-up. The summer newcomer must now move into the first eleven.

2. Alex Kral

In the Schalke midfield, a cool head and strategic thinking will be necessary in the coming weeks. While Tom Krauß is not to be thought of from the starting XI, replacing Florian Flick would be more conceivable.

Although he has recently shown quite solid performances, Kral still brings more of the role of thinker and driver with him. In addition, the Czech has already gained significantly more professional experience, which can also be helpful.

He doesn’t win fewer duels than Flick either, the mileage will be marginally lower at most. However, it would be more important if Schalke came up with more with the ball than against it.

3. Tobias Mohr

Whether as a left-back or on the same side a bit more offensive: Tobias Mohr has steadily improved over the past few days and has shown himself to be a valuable player. Just because Thomas Ouwejan was a great value last season while his influence is currently declining as part of a defensive back four doesn’t mean the Dutchman should automatically be placed in front of him.

Mohr’s crosses and standards have not proven to be worse either. In addition, he seems to be getting the mix of defensive and offensive implemented better than Ouwejan.

His dedication and passion were also commendable. Kramer should pull himself together and keep counting on him.

4.Jordan Larsson

Jordan Larsson will also have to play much more often in the coming weeks. So far, his impact on the S04 game has been quite small. But that was partly due to the defensive orientation, especially in the derby, and partly to his role as an outside player.

Rather, he could just as well be drawn into the storm center – for example as a double leader together with Simon Terodde. Another advantage would be the bank space for Sebastian Polter, who has not been able to earn his bets at all up to now.

Larsson on the outside, but then with more integration and offensive play, or in the center: It’s time that the 25-year-old can also use his skills in the interests of Schalke.

5. Florent Mollet

Demanding a regular place in the starting eleven for Florent Mollet would currently be greatly exaggerated. After all, Dominick Drexler doesn’t do a bad job, while the Frenchman has hardly been able to show himself so far.

But that’s exactly what he should be allowed to do in a timely manner. In the last three games he wasn’t even part of the squad. The team could really use a midfielder with creativity and a good feel for the ball.

Due to the absence of Rodrigo Zalazar, the new summer signing can and must finally get more chances. Gütersloh or not: He was one of the very few players who could work for more trust in this test.

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This article was originally published on 90min.com/de as.