Michael Rensing’s impressive record in 19 Bundesliga appearances for Bayern so far reads won 13, drawn six and lost precisely none. The number two goalkeeper fully intends to maintain his remarkable run when the league leaders travel to face Eintracht Frankfurt in midweek.
Rensing will start the match because Oliver Kahn is sidelined with a neck injury. “I’m pleased I’ll be getting some more match practice, because that’s not been the case very often this season,” the 24-year-old told a scheduled news conference after Monday training.
Rensing too old for the reserves
Rensing has made 12 competitive appearances this season, the majority back in October last year while Kahn recovered from surgery on his elbow. Otherwise, the keeper has mainly been restricted to brief outings such as Sunday’s run-out against Dortmund, when he came on for Kahn at half-time with the score already 4-0.
“My job is to be ready at the drop of a hat. I’m used to it,” insisted Rensing, who is now too old for regular appearances in the Bayern reserves, where a majority of the players must be under 23. Rensing understandably makes no secret of his longing for the new season, when he steps up to number one status after years understudying Kahn.
Hoeneß has faith
The player laughed off a raging debate in the German media claiming Bayern are in the market for an experienced keeper, “because we sorted it all out a while ago. The agreement holds good today. What is true is that we need an experienced back-up.“ The statement was confirmed, by no means for the first time, by general manager Uli Hoeneß at the weekend.
“It’s 100 percent certain that Michael will get his chance, and he has to take it. Obviously, we can’t end the season with 97 goals against,” commented Hoeneß, reiterating his complete faith in the player. “If he replaces Kahn in the manner he’s deputised for him up to now, I have no worries whatsoever.“ And the longer Rensing’s fine record continues, the better.
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