The 23-year old, who had never played in a defensive role, prior to the game against Denmark, reflects on his new position and performance.
The Bayern Leverkusen youngster, who has made nine appearances for Die Mannschaft, had a game to remember against Denmark. Joachim Low had a massive selection headache prior to Germany’s last fixture of the Group B.
His first choice right full-back was suspended for the clash against Morten Olsen’s side. Low decided to take a gamble and gave Lars Bender the nod. The 23-year old, who primarily plays as a midfielder, was unproven at this level
but his manager had not doubts about the youngster’s ability.
The former 1860 Munich midfielder slotted into his new role comfortably and played a blinder. Despite playing in a defensive role he scored a fantastic goal, which cemented Germany’s place in the quarter finals of the 2012 European
Championship.
The player himself reveals that although he was not played in his original position, but he was well aware of the responsibilities that were attached to the right full-back position. Having played in this role during entire training,
he got himself accustomed to playing on the right hand side of defence.
"That is not my position but I played there during the entire build-up," he is quoted as saying in an interview.
Bender thinks he should count himself lucky for being part of such a talented team, and he will stay level headed. Personal glory does not mean much to the Euro 2012 debutant as he prefers clinching the European Champions’ title
over it.
"I should be humble. What is important is the team and that we continue to be successful. We have a positive spirit in our team,” he added.
The makeshift German right-back further reflects on his first European Championship debut, which in his opinion became even more memorable after scoring the winner. He also reveals he was surprised to find the back of the net,
as he is not famous for his prolific goal scoring.
"Apart from the goal, starting my first game [at the Euros] was something special. But I am happy I could score. That is, of course, a nice present," he further added.
Considering Lars Bender’s performance, Joachim Low is bound to have a selection headache ahead of his side’s quarter final against Greece. The Bayer Leverkusen midfielder has thrown his name into the mix for the next clash’s starting
line up.
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