Donyell Malen scores brace in Singapore friendly as Edin Terzic backs misfiring striker

Donyell Malen so far has been something of a worry for Borussia Dortmund. The Dutchman has not yet taken off during his time at BVB. Head coach Edin Terzic however this week spoke of his belief in the centre-forward’s ability.

Speaking to Bild, Terzic underlined the strain on the striker himself: “He has incredible skills and has never been happy in recent months when failing to score.” Terzic however believes Malen can return to winning ways: “We know he will start scoring at some point, Donny knows what I expect from him.” 

Speaking to Ruhr Nachrichten, Malen, who scored 21 goals in his last season with PSV Eindhoven, spoke of his own commitment: “I can do a lot of things better, but for that I have to stay positive and keep working hard.”  

The coaches confidence hasn’t yet translated into goals on the pitch this season but that hasn’t stopped Terzic backing the striker with 17 appearances. Malen, for his part, returned the compliment in a 7-2 win against Lion City Sailors in Singapore with a brace.

During Dortmund’s tour of Asia, they also play Johor Darul Ta’zim and Vietnam. BVB’s first Bundesliga game back is against Augsburg on January 22.

GGFN | Ben McFadyean