Michael Zorc hails Thomas Delaney after ‘outstanding job’ at centre-back against Hoffenheim

Borussia Dortmund sporting director Michael Zorc has praised Thomas Delaney following his impressive performance at centre-back during the 1-0 win over Hoffenheim.

With Borussia Dortmund missing a number of key defenders, Lucien Favre was forced to call on Thomas Delaney to replace Lukasz Piszczek in the back three after the veteran Pole suffered an eye injury in the first half of his side’s game against Hoffenheim on Saturday. Delaney hadn’t played as a centre-back since his FC Kobenhavn days in 2014. But he still managed to put on a strong display and helped the Black and Yellows keep a hard-earned clean sheet.

Michael Zorc lauded Delaney’s efforts after the game, calling his performance outstanding. The Borussia Dortmund sporting director also spoke about the team’s overall display, and said that he was satisfied with the win, all things considered.

"“We really deserved to win the game. We had to replace Lukasz Piszczek early on, but Thomas Delaney did an outstanding job in central defence.”“The introductions of Haaland and Reus gave us an additional attacking push and we created many goalscoring opportunities. We should have put the game to bed earlier, but we did our job here very well. When you consider as well that we haven’t won here for so long, I’m very satisfied.”"

Zorc also gave an update on Lukasz Piszczek, who was taken to the hospital after getting poked in the eye early in the game. It remains to be seen if the 35 year old will be fit in time to play against Lazio on Tuesday.

"“Lukasz got a finger in the eye. He was bleeding, so he was taken to the hospital. We hope he can play again on Tuesday.”"

Marco Reus, who came off the bench and scored what proved to be the winning goal, was pleased that Borussia Dortmund were able to get the job done against a very difficult opponent in Hoffenheim.

"“It was important today that we got the decisive goal. It became apparent early on that the team that scored the first goal would have a good chance of winning the match. We have always really struggled here in recent years.”“There were three points up for grabs today and we got them. Hoffenheim are strong at home. They play with a good system and it was very difficult for us today, as has been the case in recent years too.”"

Borussia Dortmund will now turn their attention to the UEFA Champions League, as they make the trip to Italy to take on SS Lazio. Their next Bundesliga game is a big one as well, as it sees them go up against local rivals Schalke 04.