Hasenhüttl on selection dilemmas
Ralph Hasenhüttl has been dissecting his approach to squad selection and player rotation this term, which may appear different from previous seasons based on the profile of players at his disposal.
When asked about the impact of Armando Broja against West Ham, and whether that cameo performance warranted a starting berth, the manager explained that he has multiple players that he feels are "ready" to be selected at any given moment.
Increasing squad depth, which Hasenhüttl and his staff worked on over the summer, was a key goal for 2021/22, he consequently explained, which has reduced minutes for some of last year's star performers, but given others the chance to shine.
"A few players are ready for a start now," the Austrian said. "The good thing for me is that I have the choice. Last season if you were fit, you played.
"Now we have a lot of qualities that we need, or can try different alternatives. It's not so much about who deserves to play, but what we need to play that game.
"Maybe that looks a little bit unfair but sometimes you need different qualities against the opponent; that's what I've told the guys.
"It's possible to be quite quick in the team, but also you must continue to show up to stay there. We have nearly at least one option on all positions, which is what you want."
