After missing three games due to a back problem, David Alaba returned to action on Saturday night. With 67 minutes on the clock, the Austria international powered down the left flank like Arjen Robben before cutting into the penalty area to strike the ball into the net at the far post, making it 4-1 for FCB.
The fact it was goal number 18 for Alaba in the Bundesliga was not special but scoring with his right foot was. “My right foot gets better every year and I’m happy it worked out today,” declared a delighted goalscorer after the game. Alaba is actually known for being strong on his left foot but he never wanted to totally rely on that. “I’m always trying to improve all areas of my game. You need both feet at this level. I was glad to get my reward today,” the 25-year-old added.
The next step to being a leader
The game against Gladbach went to plan for Alaba. “I didn’t have any problems with my back and it felt very,very good,” explained the full back who produced an impressive display in addition to scoring. David was then presented with a special duty in the second half. When Thomas Müller was substituted the captain’s armband was passed to Alaba.
“I was really happy to get the armband. It’s a great honour for me to be on the pitch as captain and lead the team. One of my targets is to grow into the role of being a leader and accept more responsibility. I think I’m on the right track.” The Austria international is keen to show that in the important games coming up. Jupp Heynckes can be happy as he has another option in his squad – and Alaba now poses a threat with his newly discovered right foot.
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