Toppmöller discusses possible rotation ahead of Eintracht Frankfurt’s trip to Heidenheim

Dino Toppmöller has hinted he may rotate his Eintracht Frankfurt squad for Saturday’s clash with Heidenheim.

After playing 120 minutes in Tuesday’s DFB-Pokal penalty shootout defeat to Borussia Dortmund, Eintracht Frankfurt now turn their focus to Saturday’s Bundesliga clash with Heidenheim before travelling to Napoli in the Champions League on Tuesday.

Given the tight schedule, head coach Dino Toppmöller is considering changes to his lineup for the weekend, with Rasmus Kristensen and Jonathan Burkardt – both of whom played the full match against Dortmund – among those who could be rested.

“They’re both very sensible lads who already have a few more games under their belts,” Toppmöller said at a press conference on Friday.

“It’s probably a little easier for them to be completely honest with themselves than it would be for a younger player, who might not tell the truth because he’s desperate to play. Both of them have a strong sense of responsibility – for their own bodies and for the group. We’ll have a chat and see how they get on in the final training session.”

If Kristensen is given a rest, Nnamdi Collins could be handed a rare start, having played just 37 minutes across Eintracht’s last five matches.

“Rasmus has done very well,” said Toppmöller. 

“Still, it’s possible that Nnamdi will get his opportunity tomorrow. That depends on how the talks with the players go shortly.”

Meanwhile, Elye Wahi could come into the side up front in place of Burkardt.

“Wahi had the best training session I’ve seen from him on Wednesday – with great intensity and several goals. He showed a really good reaction,” said the coach.

“’Jonny’ just played 120 minutes. It’s possible there will be a change tomorrow, and then it’s about giving the right response on the pitch.”