Merlin Polzin explains Warmed Omari’s defensive role at Hamburger SV

Hamburger SV head coach Merlin Polzin has praised Warmed Omari’s versatility, insisting that the defender remains an option on either side of the club’s three-man defence.

The 26-year-old has recently established himself on the left side of Hamburg’s back three, despite initially being recruited to operate as the right-sided centre-back.

His deployment on the left has partly been influenced by Jordan Torunarigha’s injury, but Polzin believes Omari’s technical qualities also make him suitable for the position.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of Friday’s Bundesliga meeting with Borussia Mönchengladbach, the HSV coach highlighted the defender’s ability to distribute the ball and break opposition lines.

Omari’s accurate diagonal passes and ability to switch play have particularly impressed the Hamburg manager, allowing him to find midfield teammates and create opportunities to progress attacks.

“He’s quite uncomplicated in that regard; he plays wherever we put him,” Polzin explained.

The coach also made it clear that Omari’s recent appearances on the left do not represent a permanent change of position.

“It’s not that we’ve only planned him on the left on the tactical board in the dressing room. He will play wherever the team needs him,” Polzin added.

Omari remains an option on both sides

Polzin’s comments underline the importance of having a defender capable of performing different roles within Hamburg’s defensive system.

The defender has demonstrated that he can operate comfortably on either side of the three-man defence, giving the coaching staff greater flexibility when selecting their backline.

His ability to progress the ball from defence is another important asset, particularly as Hamburg look to improve their build-up play.

Omari is expected to remain an important option as Hamburg prepare to host Borussia Mönchengladbach at the Volksparkstadion on Friday.

The encounter offers another opportunity for the defender to strengthen his position within Polzin’s defensive plans.