Dortmund defender Anton backs Guirassy ahead of Villarreal Champions League clash

Borussia Dortmund defender Waldemar Anton has highlighted the importance of Guinea striker Serhou Guirassy to the German side ahead of their opening Champions League match against Villarreal.

Anton praised Guirassy’s contribution beyond his goals but believes the 29-year-old forward still has room to improve despite his importance to Dortmund’s attacking play.

The pair will be hoping to begin the new Champions League campaign on a positive note when BVB face Spanish side Villarreal.

Anton backs Guirassy to improve

Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Anton said he has known Guirassy for a long time and remains convinced that the Guinea international can reach an even higher level.

“I’ve known Serhou for a very long time. I know that he can definitely play even better than he is right now. But yes, it’s always important for a striker to score. I think once you’ve scored that first goal, everything just becomes a little easier.”

Guirassy has established himself as one of African football’s leading forwards in European football, and his goalscoring ability will again be crucial to Dortmund’s ambitions this season.

‘He helps us as a team’

Anton also stressed that Guirassy’s influence extends beyond his role as Dortmund’s main goalscorer.

The defender pointed to the striker’s enthusiasm and ability to bring his teammates into play as qualities that make him an important figure within the squad.

“He is extremely important for us, also his joy of playing that he has shown and how he uses the other guys. He helps us as a team.”

Anton concluded by expressing his hope that the Guinean forward will continue his current progress.

“And yes, and I hope that he continues down the same path.”

Dortmund will now look to Guirassy to make his mark on another Champions League campaign as one of Africa’s leading representatives in Europe’s elite club competition.