Reis Defends Onuachu, Blames Lack Of Service For Poor Freiburg Display

Trabzonspor head coach Thomas Reis has come to the defence of Paul Onuachu following criticism of the Nigerian striker’s performance in Thursday’s match against Freiburg, insisting his team failed to provide the service required to bring out the best in the towering forward.

Onuachu, who started because of Franculino Dju’s injury, struggled to make an impact against the German side and has yet to reproduce the impressive form that made him one of Trabzonspor’s leading scorers last season.

The 32-year-old came under criticism after the encounter, but Reis believes the problem was not necessarily the Nigerian’s performance but his teammates’ failure to exploit his physical attributes.

“If we have a tall, two-header striker like Onuachu who can hold up the ball, you have to play accordingly. We couldn’t get him the balls he wanted. We should have taken advantage of the advantages he offered us,” Reis said.

The German tactician is reportedly planning a personal meeting with Onuachu to reassure him of his confidence and help the striker regain his best form.

Onuachu has made 73 appearances for Trabzonspor since joining the club, scoring 46 goals and providing six assists. He has also received 10 yellow cards.