During FC Bayern’s commanding 4-1 victory in the DFB Cup away against second-division side Osnabrück, Tom Bischof started a competitive match for the first time this season. In the first two games, he played a rather minor role despite having prepared well.
Unsurprisingly, questions arose right away. Bischof, who often played on the left side of the defense last season, was actually expected to play a bigger role this time in his best position at center back.
But there’s no cause for concern. Vincent Kompany echoed that sentiment after the game. For one thing, the season is still long, and for another, the rotation policy is just starting to really take hold.
Kompany is counting on Bischof
After the cup victory, Kompany explained: “Tom is an important player for the future of the club. He’ll get his playing time and play a major and important role for us. We’ve deliberately made room in the roster for his development. We’re very satisfied with our midfield.”
Against Osnabrück, Bischof demonstrated exactly what sets him apart. He showed great composure on the ball, repeatedly tried to make an impact with his passing, and was proactive going forward. No wonder he made a smart run to score the 2-1 goal, which he himself had set up by cutting in from the right side.
“I’m glad we advanced; that’s never a given in games like this. As for me, I’m always happy to get out there and play with the guys. I’m also happy about my goal, which was important today,” the midfielder explained after the match in Osnabrück. You can already tell that every player is eager to prove himself.
The coach made five changes from the Bundesliga opener, and there may well be more changes on Saturday. Maybe Bischof will stay in the lineup—we’ll find out over the next few days.
