Ulreich speaks of “fireman” role in Neuer’s shadow

Long-time Bayern reserve goalkeeper Sven Ulreich has reflected on his role.

It’s been more than nine years since Sven Ulreich joined Bayern Munich from VfB Stuttgart, but he’s never been the first-choice goalkeeper for the German champions, instead serving as Manuel Neuer’s back-up.

Nevertheless, he has been called into action on occasion, most recently against Dinamo Zagreb and Werder Bremen, and has made a total of 103 appearances for the club.

In an interview with Bayern Munich’s official website, the 36-year-old reflects on his role, which he likens to that of a “fireman”.

“When the worst comes to the worst, you have to be there and deliver a top performance. That’s my job,” Ulreich said in the interview.

“That’s sometimes underestimated. When you sit on the bench for a long time and don’t play, it’s not so easy to find your rhythm. But I think I still manage to get back into it relatively quickly.

“Being a fireman – you can say that about my job.”

At the age of 36, Ulreich can live with not being a first-choice goalkeeper.

“I’ve become much calmer. That’s down to age and experience. I’ve long since come to terms with my role and really enjoy the situation. It’s no longer the case that I wake up every morning and think I have to play as number one somewhere now. No, I’m happy the way it is,” he said.