Criticized after his catastrophic performance against Lorient (1-3) on Wednesday in Ligue 1, the versatile midfielder Thiago Mendes, used in central defense, was defended by the coach of Olympique Lyonnais Peter Bosz. The Dutchman also sent a message to the “old-timers” of his group.
Since his arrival in Ligue 1, the coach of Olympique Lyonnais Peter Bosz has accustomed us to not use the language of wood. The Dutch coach is also known for his ability to defend his team in all circumstances. This was the case with the striker Karl Toko-Ekambi, who was attacked by some of the fans last season. And this time, the native of Apeldoorn went to the rescue for Thiago Mendes.
Bosz does not let go of Mendes
In great difficulty during the defeat against Lorient (1-3) on Wednesday in Ligue 1, the 30-year-old versatile midfielder, used in central defense, plunged the Gones by making bad choices and committing direct errors on the goals conceded. But we should not count on Bosz to sink the Brazilian. On the contrary.
“It’s too easy to look at that Thiago because he made a mistake in Lorient. If you look closely, we have other defenders who have also made big mistakes, defending on the wrong side, anticipating badly, losing the duel. It happens, before it was maybe another player. Thiago made a mistake, I agree, but it has nothing to do with whether he is a defensive midfielder or a defender. As we talk about him, the fans talk about him too. I know how soccer works. He is a very good player, believe me. I have confidence in him”, assured the Batave, decidedly very protective in a press conference on Friday.
The old ones expected to turn the corner
Before facing Monaco in Ligue 1 on Sunday, Bosz does not intend to finish off Mendes mentally. And while he has a relatively young group, the Rhone coach also expects an awakening of the “old” of his squad dedicated to bring their experience. With the head of the central defender Jerome Boateng who, almost recovered from a muscle injury, will potentially return to the group next week. “If he shows that he is better than the others, he will be able to play. I count on him,” assured the Oranje.
“In my opinion, it should not be necessary to be pitted. If you are a professional, it must come from yourself, from wanting to win, from being 100%. But it’s also true that most of the group is young so, from time to time, they need to be poked. For the young players, it’s harder because soccer is also a question of experience, even if the older ones have for example taken a goal several times. I can imagine that it is more difficult for the young players, and the older ones must help,” added Bosz, who has a very clear line of conduct.
