He was a tower of strength in Dortmund, he scored the vital opener against Maccabi Haifa, and he was the match-winner in the derby against Nürnberg: Daniel van Buyten has had arguably his best-ever week since joining Bayern. “I think the way I’ve played when selected has shown I can be relied on,” the Belgian declared after his 82nd-minute goal in Saturday’s 2-1 win over Bavarian rivals Nürnberg.
The 1.96 m (6 ft 5 in) colossus made just 18 Bundesliga appearances last term, but he has been an ever-present in all eight competitive matches this season. “It’s a bit different now. The coach believes in me. I aim to repay his faith every time I’m given the opportunity to get out onto the field, and make the very best of the situation,” Van Buyten commented.
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