Adi Hutter challenges Nnamdi Collins to improve after returning to Frankfurt starting XI

Eintracht Frankfurt head coach Adi Hutter has challenged Nnamdi Collins to raise his performance levels after the defender worked his way back into the starting lineup following an injury-disrupted start to the season.

The 22-year-old missed a significant part of pre-season because of back problems but has since started Frankfurt’s last two matches, showing signs of improvement after a difficult outing against RB Leipzig.

Hütter acknowledged Collins’ physical qualities and potential but stressed that his place in the team would ultimately depend on his performances.

“He has now played two games in a row and, of course, was out for a long time before that. Nevertheless, he has physical attributes that many players don’t have. At the end of the day, I’m interested in the performance he delivers. I will, of course, also have a conversation with him,” the Frankfurt coach said ahead of the DFB-Pokal clash against Hamburger SV.

Hütter believes the defender has the physical attributes to become a more influential player, particularly when supporting Frankfurt’s attacks down the right flank.

“I expect even more forward runs from a player of his quality, but there may also be reasons why that hasn’t happened yet. He missed a large part of pre-season, but naturally I expect him to improve and show what he is capable of,” Hütter added.