Ansgar Knauff returns to boost Eintracht Frankfurt

Ansgar Knauff has made an encouraging return for Eintracht Frankfurt after recovering from a thigh injury, giving coach Adi Hutter another attacking option.

The 24-year-old winger entered the 2-2 draw with Freiburg after an hour, replacing Ritsu Doan. His arrival immediately added energy to Frankfurt’s right flank, and he repeatedly created problems for the visitors’ defence.

Knauff came close to making a decisive impact when he delivered a perfectly weighted cross for Jonathan Burkardt. The striker reached the opportunity but could not convert it.

Hütter later highlighted that spell as one of Frankfurt’s few genuinely productive periods. “We only had a short phase in the second half when we brought Knauff on and created chances,” the coach said.

The substitute appearance was especially important for Knauff, who missed Frankfurt’s first three Bundesliga matches after suffering his injury shortly before the opening fixture. He now feels ready to take on a larger role.

“I came back relatively quickly and feel fit. I’m happy with the minutes and ready for more,” Knauff said.

Sporting director Markus Krösche also praised the winger, calling him an important player who produced “a very good game” after coming on.

Knauff could become a serious option for the trip to RB Leipzig on October 10, either as a starter or an impact substitute.