Kovac defends Lewandowski rotation

Manuel Neuer and Robert Lewandowski will start Bayern Munich's clash with Hertha Berlin, according to head coach Niko Kovac.

Published : Sep 27, 2018 19:09 IST

Bayern Munich forward Robert Lewandowski
Bayern Munich forward Robert Lewandowski
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Bayern Munich forward Robert Lewandowski

Robert Lewandowski will be restored to the Bayern Munich line-up for its clash with Hertha Berlin on Friday, Niko Kovac confirmed.

Lewandowski has scored three goals in four Bundesliga appearances this season, but was dropped for Sandro Wagner in Tuesday's 1-1 draw with Augsburg.

The Bayern coach refused to be drawn into a discussion about Lewandowski's morale and defended his policy of prioritising the fitness of his top players amid a packed schedule of fixtures.

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Following its trip to Berlin, the Bavarians faces Ajax at home in the Champions League on Tuesday, before entertaining Borussia Monchengladbach in the Bundesliga.

"The rotation of Lewandowski and Wagner was agreed. [On Friday], the starting line-up will look different again," said Kovac.

"We should not always discuss whether or not a player is angry. My job is to keep my players fit and fresh for the important games. I'll continue to rotate [versus Hertha], Ajax and Gladbach."

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Kovac praised the performances in training of goalkeeper Sven Ulreich, but said that he has no plans to replace Manuel Neuer, despite the Germany international's recent error.

Neuer spilled a cross in the 86th minute versus Augsburg and Felix Gotze consequently equalised, ending the champions' 100 per cent record this season.

"Sven Ulreich is giving fantastic performances in training. But, as long as Manuel Neuer is fit and playing well, there is no need to change anything in that position," Kovac said of the keeper who made 47 appearances in all competitions last term as Neuer recovered from a foot injury.

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Bayern will be without Leon Goretzka due to an ankle injury when Kovac returns to the capital to face Hertha, for whom he made 223 appearances across two spells as a player.

"I still have relatives and friends in Berlin. There will definitely be some catching up to do after the game," said the 46-year-old.

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