Former Germany boss Berti Vogts claims Timo Werner needs to be “more selfish” in the final third to be successful at Euro 2020.
Werner, 25, was included in the Germany squad despite a mixed opening season at Chelsea.
The forward was a part of the Blues’ Champions League title win but his finishing ability has been criticised with many chances going to waste.
Vogts, who won the Euros as a player in 1972 and manager in 1996, has offered Werner his words of wisdom ahead of his team’s opener against France on Tuesday.
He told German outlet Sportbuzzer : “Many accuse him of not scoring enough, and he must certainly work on that.
(Image: Alexander Hassenstein)
“As a striker, you shouldn’t think about using the man next to you first, scoring a goal has to be your first goal, always.
“Because a striker is measured by goals, it’s heroic when you score the decisive goal. So, Timo Werner: be more selfish!”
The former defender – who also won the 1974 World Cup – also called on Germany boss Joachim Low to entrust Werner with a spot in the starting XI.
Vogts added: “I would like to see Timo Werner upfront.
“He can get into the important spaces in front of the goal with his speed, right there, in the centre, the French are vulnerable. He can do a lot with his strength one-on-one.”
While Vogts has been singing Werner’s praises, the forward has been doing the same to Germany teammate Manuel Neuer.
He hailed the Bayern Munich star as the “best goalkeeper in the world” – and his glittering career backs up the claim.
Will Germany defeat France on Tuesday? Comment below
Neuer has won eight Bundesliga titles, two Champions League trophies and earlier this month he became the first ‘keeper to reach 100 caps for Germany.
Werner said: “I’ve scored goals against Bayern [while playing for RB Leipzig], but never against him [Neuer]. Someone else was in goal.
“He’s sensational, and has been the best goalkeeper for years. For me, he’s the best in the world.
“In training, if you don’t put the ball right in the corner, it’s not going in. He has a magnificent aura and is a top-class goalkeeper.”
Both stars will be hoping Germany can get the win over reigning world champions France as they find themselves in the so-called “Group of Death” at the tournament.
They will also have to face Portugal and Hungary in the group stage. In the meantime, their opener kicks off at 8pm on Tuesday.
