Niklas Süle comments on Hansi Flick criticism

Niklas Süle has commented on the criticism he received from Hansi Flick last month, saying that he feels he deserves to be in the Germany squad.

Hansi Flick made waves last month by dropping Niklas Süle from the Germany squad and then criticising him. The Germany head coach said that he wants the Borussia Dortmund defender to take a step forward in his attitude and mentality. Süle has now reacted to the comments, and addressed Flick’s claims.

"In an interview with Ruhr Nachrichten, Süle said: “I was very happy with my season. Based on my performances, I think I deserved to be called up to the national team. And then to be informed three or four days after the Mainz game that I’m not in and to read this criticism, it was a real blow.”“I had a long phone call with Hansi Flick, who I’ve known for a long time. I see myself as a national player. I see myself in this team and I think I earned it with my performances. If the national coach decides otherwise, I have to accept that. It was not the first low point in my career. And this time, too, I’ll deal with it in a sensible way.”"

Süle also spoke about the claims over his lack of fitness. He said that while he has very high expectations of himself, he does not need to change his attitude or prove himself to anyone.

"“I have very high standards for myself that I want to live up to. I have already proven in my career that I can win titles and help my teams. I will not change my attitude for anyone. Not even if I’m a national player or not.”“I played every game in the final phase of the season, every three days. If you do that, it shows that you’re fit. This fitness accusation really hurts me. I am a good professional. I’ve done plenty of hard work for it and achieved a lot. I know what’s good for me as a player and as a person. I’ll go into next season in the same way and, as always, try to do my best for the team.”"

Niklas Süle joined Borussia Dortmund on a free transfer from Bayern Munich last summer. He was a regular starter all season long, and also quickly established himself as a leader in the team.

The 27 year old has been named the club’s third captain ahead of the start of the new season. Süle said that he feels very comfortable at Borussia Dortmund, and added that he has not regretted the decision to join the club for a second.

A crucial season awaits Süle and Borussia Dortmund as they look to win the Bundesliga title. And with the European Championships coming up next summer, the defender will be keen to show his quality and fight his way back into the Germany squad.