When Niclas Füllkrug joined Borussia Dortmund from Werder Bremen in the summer, there was a significant amount of scepticism regarding the transfer. Whether the then 30-year-old would be able to step up to the level required at BvB was the main concern, but the German international has not disappointed.
A total of 13 goals and nine assists in all competitions this season has highlighted the positive effect Füllkrug has had. While 13 goals is far from Harry Kane’s return at Bayern Munich, nine assists signify how he has positively influenced those around him.
This has seen Füllkrug place himself alongside some considerably esteemed company. As per Opta, only Erling Haaland has returned more goals and assists during their first 22 Bundesliga games with Die Schwarzgelben than Füllkrug since records began in 2004.
The current Manchester City striker earned 27 goals and assists during his first 22 league games with Dortmund, compared to Füllkrug’s 19. It is a difference that may appear rather large; however, it must be remembered that Haaland was part of a free-scoring Dortmund front line, whereas Füllkrug often has to work with scraps, seeing just a handful of opportunities come his way every game.
Regardless, the 31-year-old is aiming to improve his goal tally, as he stated to Ruhr Nachrichten: “My first half of the season was good in terms of goals. Of course, I’m not happy with the goal tally in the end. I have to and want to score more goals for BVB.”
If Dortmund are to finish in the top four this season, then they will need to supply Füllkrug at a far better rate. Nevertheless, the thirteen-time German international is hungry for more goals, which can only be a positive sign for Edin Terzić’s side.
GGFN | Will Shopland
