Tom Rothe: Borussia Dortmund wonderkid making big impact on loan with Holstein Kiel
By Eli Brand
Tom Rothe’s defensive abilities
Tom Rothe, however, has also shown that he is astute defensively. The young left-back ranks ninth among all players in the 2. Bundesliga for interceptions, with his 1.67 per 90 also in the top 12% of all full-backs.
Rothe’s total 3.45 tackles and interceptions per 90 are decent, but not exceptional at the moment. But with him still in the early stages of his first full senior campaign as a wing-back, these numbers are certainly encouraging.
In addition, Rothe is also second in the 2. Bundesliga for crosses into the penalty area. He is showing a great energy and reading of the game to still make sure that he covers his defensive duties.
Rothe’s over 6’ 3” frame projects to have exceptional potential in the air especially as he fills out and matures. However, even at the age of 18, he is already fairly strong and contests over two aerial duels per 90, winning 65% of those duels.