Michael Zorc backs ‘top defender’ Mats Hummels for Germany return

Borussia Dortmund sporting director Michael Zorc has praised Mats Hummels amid calls for him to be reinstated into the Germany squad.

Mats Hummels (along with Thomas Müller and Jerome Boateng) was told by Germany head coach Joachim Löw in March 2019 that he would no longer be called up to the national team squad. Germany’s defensive woes have been well documented in the absence of the Borussia Dortmund defender.

And after Die Mannschaft conceded three goals each at home to both Turkey and Switzerland during the recently concluded international break, calls for Hummels to return to the national team squad increased once again.

Former Germany internationals Dietmar Hamann and Lothar Matthäus both openly spoke in favour of Hummels returning while on media duty. While Bastian Schweinsteiger said that Germany were missing a leader in their defensive line.

Michael Zorc was asked about the issue during Thursday’s press conference, and he heaped praise on Hummels, saying that the Borussia Dortmund vice-captain can still do an excellent job for the national team.

"“I told everyone my opinion on this matter last season,” Zorc said. “I think Mats is still is a top, top defender for Germany and he has the quality to play there. That is my opinion.”“However, in the end, it is not relevant because I’m not the person to decide. The national team coach does. It’s his right and he made the decision. In terms of quality, Mats is still at the highest level.”"

Hummels has been rock solid at the back since his 2019 move to Borussia Dortmund, providing leadership and steel that was missing before his arrival. His excellent performances in the heart of the Dortmund back-line saw him earn a place in Kicker’s 2019/20 Bundesliga Team of the Season.

The 31 year old has shown that he is still one of the best defenders in the Bundesliga, but a return to the national team does not seem to be on the cards, at least as long as Joachim Löw remains in charge. But Germany sure could do with a dependable player like him in their defence.