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Mertcan Ayhan on useful advice from three ‘beasts’
Three days before his 19th birthday, Mertcan Ayhan was the only outfield player to remain on the pitch for the full 90 minutes in the friendly against Borussia Mönchengladach on Friday (5/9). The Schalke academy product impressed in the middle of the back-three against the Bundesliga side, putting in a solid performance despite his young age.
The Gelsenkirchen native, who signed his first professional contract a few weeks ago, got stuck in and was vocal at the back. “It was obviously a challenge, but one I enjoyed taking on,” said Ayhan. “I’m grateful for every chance to learn.” Ayhan’s opponents last Friday included established Bundesliga players such as Robin Hack, Franck Honorat and Haris Tabakovic. The Bosnian international is particularly known for his physicality and how he makes life difficult for opposing defenders.
I’m just trying to learn things during every training session.
Ayhan, captain of Schalke’s U19 side last season, regularly gets advice from his defensive colleagues Timo Becker, Nikola Katic and Hasan Kuruçay. “Those three are absolute beasts,” commented Ayhan. “It’s great to receive some help from my teammates. They recently told me that I can still improve my physicality and be more vocal. I need to play with more aggression and shouldn’t fear any opponent.”
The now 19-year-old has featured in two of Schalke’s five competitive games so far this season. “I can definitely compete at this level and feel ready.” At the same time, the youngster recognises he has room for improvement. “I’m just trying to learn things during every training session.”
