Nagelsmann unwavering on Undav's role for Germany at the World Cup

Julian Nagelsmann insisted Deniz Undav's role in the Germany team will not change ahead of the World Cup, despite his winner against Ghana on Monday.

Undav scored in the 88th minute to secure a 2-1 win for Germany in Stuttgart, where he plays his club football, after Kai Havertz opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the first half.

Germany have now won their last seven matches, their longest winning run since they won eight consecutive games under Hansi Flick between September 2021 and March 2022.

Despite his crucial impact for Germany, Undav was not as influential as he would have hoped to be after replacing Serge Gnabry at half-time.

The striker registered the least touches (13) and completed passes (six) for his side, while his goal was the only shot he recorded.

Nagelsmann was adamant that Undav's winner would not change much, if anything, ahead of the World Cup this summer.

"He did what he often does in Stuttgart. He wasn't very involved. I don't think he was at all until then. But then he scored, that's what he's there for," said the Germany boss on Undav.

"That's the crucial thing, that he can take advantage of chances when the opponent is a bit tired. He did what a goalscorer has to do.

"But as I said before, I think if he already has 70 minutes in his legs, then it will be difficult.

"We have defined roles. And I must stick to them in the next two matches before the World Cup, otherwise I can forget about my credibility.

"If I then do everything differently, there’s no point in having the discussion about roles in the first place."

Undav was cheered by the home crowd when he was substituted on for the second half, though team-mate Leroy Sane was jeered during his introduction in the 78th minute.

Sane provided the assist for Undav's winner, and the Stuttgart striker hopes the fans support Sane going forward.

"I thank the fans for chanting my name. That made me happy," said Undav.

"But hopefully next time they don't boo Leroy Sane. That was a pity.

"Leroy is part of the team, just like myself, every player and every staff member. We should support everyone."