Adi Hutter explains Nnamdi Collins’ difficult return from injury

Eintracht Frankfurt coach Adi Hutter has explained why Nnamdi Collins has struggled to reach his usual level since returning from injury.

The 22-year-old centre-back missed five to six weeks before playing a full match against Eintracht Braunschweig. He was then called up by Germany’s Under-21 side, where he played another 90 minutes, before completing a third full game in Frankfurt’s 6-0 defeat to RB Leipzig.

Hutter believes the sudden workload has affected Collins. “Overall, it is a bit unfortunate that he played three times 90 minutes in a very short period after being out for five or six weeks,” he said.

The coach added that, despite Collins’ strong physical qualities, returning from a long layoff is not easy.

Hütter also dismissed suggestions that Collins’ difficult Germany debut around a year ago is still affecting him. “I do not believe that is still an issue in his head,” he said.

Collins has made only two Bundesliga appearances this season and will be looking to regain his rhythm. Frankfurt face FC Koln next, with the defender hoping for a steadier run of games.