Timo Werner insisted that starting and scoring for Germany in the 2-0 win over Liechtenstein helped him gain confidence, despite criticism over the overall team performance.
The 25-year-old’s first-half goal helped Germany secure their third win in the World Cup Group J qualifier.
It was still an important win, considering they suffered a shock defeat to North Macedonia back in March, but they were not very convincing either offensively.
German news outlet Sport1 even described Werner’s presence in the second half as “hardly visible” — which to be fair was just slightly exaggerated.
While Werner himself did not deny that it was a difficult night for Germany attackers, in particular, he still believes in the team’s attacking talents.
“Sometimes every ball goes in and sometimes an opponent always gets a foot in the way,” the former RB Leipzig man said during his press conference on Saturday (via DFB’s official website).
“We have so many players who are capable of scoring, I don’t see a problem in the long term.
“I wouldn’t worry about it. We can turn half a chance into two goals again.
“When it comes to the direction of the tournament, you have to be aware that every chance counts.”
Werner’s first goal in 10 games for Chelsea and Germany
That was certainly a surprisingly confident statement considering criticism over his recent goalscoring form.
But that is because he seems very optimistic about the new season.
“It’s always important when you score as a striker,”
“The first goal of the season is always the most important. That’s why it was good that I started against Liechtenstein.
“It gives you the necessary self-confidence.”
Chronicle view
From Chelsea’s point of view, Werner’s regaining his sharpness and, more importantly, self-belief during the international break seems to be an ideal scenario.
Since Romelu Lukaku’s arrival, Werner has been pushed aside to a substitute role in the last two games at Chelsea.
Therefore, similar to Christian Pulisic who recently had to self-isolate due to Covid-19, Werner arguably needs these international matches more than a rest.
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