Schalke’s Raul Gonzalez and Lewis Holtby criticised by Huub Stevens - Bundesliga News
Schalke manager, Huub Stevens, has launched a rare attack on the misfiring duo of Raul Gonzalez and Lewis Holtby, following his team’s loss to Borussia Dortmund last weekend. He urged the players to get their acts together rather quickly if they want to
retain their place in the starting XI.
Stevens was talking in the wake of his team’s 2-0 loss at the hands of Borussia Dortmund last weekend at Signal Iduna Park.
Schalke were under pressure from the start despite serious claims being made by Holtby ahead of the game. Dortmund scored in both halves to bring down Schalke, who were lacking venom in front of a capacity Dortmund crowd.
Holtby was advised by his manager to concentrate on his game rather making unnecessary comments. He accused the midfielder of underperforming last Saturday and urged him to improve on his performances or be ready to face the axe.
The Veltins Arena outfit went into the game without the injured duo of Jefferson Farfan and skipper Benedikt Howedes. Holtby was given additional responsibility in Farfan’s absence but was unable to live up to the expectations of his manager.
Further commenting on Holtby’s talent, the manager added:
"He's only 21, but he should be ahead of Julian Draxler, who is only 18. Lewis needs to be more present and to grow into the chief's role. Otherwise, without the injured Jefferson Farfan, we have no solutions. His quality has been missing in every nook and
cranny."
Stevens also reserved criticism for the former Real Madrid striker, Raul Gonzalez. He believed that the striker has experienced a significant dip in form which is not a good sign for the Royal Blues.
While talking to Bild, he concluded:
"He's played inconsistently this season, with good and bad moments. Our current midfield problem, however, Raul cannot solve. He is a striker, a nine and a half - he needs assists."
Considering the start Spaniard had, Stevens might be correct with his observation as Raul is one of the most experienced members of the squad and needs to stand up for his club.
Raul has so far made 14 league appearances this season, netting six goals during the process. He will next be seen in league action against Augsburg on Sunday, December 4.
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