As matchday dawned at the team hotel in Stuttgart last Saturday, Felix Agu couldn't have known yet what that evening would hold for him. Head coach Ole Werner informed the team of his team selection in the morning, with Agu learning that he would soon make his long-awaited return to the starting line-up, 582 days after his most recent start for the Green-Whites. "To be honest, I was really looking forward to it, because it had been so long since my last start," the 24-year-old said about that moment.
First start in 582 days
Felix Agu on his return to the starting XI
Felix Agu was finally able to celebrate his return to the starting line-up for the Green-Whites (Photo: W.DE).
The full-back had spent several months on the sidelines, watching his teammates train and run out in the Bundesliga while he was working hard on his comeback in the gym. "It was good to be able to stay close to the team so that I didn't miss out on anything during that time," Agu explained. "I was able to learn from that experience and am grateful to be back on the pitch. Even though it's cold and snowy right now, I'm just extremely happy to be fit, healthy and able to train."
A contribution to the team
Coach Werner went with Agu's pace to help keep VfB's speedy striker Silas contained (Photo: W.DE).
Following his injury, Agu worked hard to build up the necessary fitness levels needed to play in the Bundesliga. The 24-year-old made a 31-minute cameo for the Green-Whites against Leverkusen and proceeded to play for the majority of the clash against Stuttgart the following week. The match time allowed Agu to tick off the final step in his comeback from injury. “Getting minutes in an actual game is the most effective way of developing as a player or getting back to a high standard following an injury,” explained the defender, who was naturally hoping for a better result in Stuttgart. “It can’t be replicated. While friendlies might be helpful, they don’t provide the same intensity and excitement as a league game. Every minute is invaluable in helping you find your momentum and improve your performances in game scenarios.”
Werder’s number 27 is aiming to continue on this positive track over the coming weeks, not only for his own personal development, but also in the interest of helping the team move up the league table. “I want to do my bit to ensure that we don't get caught in a downward spiral,” urged Agu. “Thanks to the fans, our strong performances at home have given us a new wave of energy and self-confidence. That’s why I’m feeling positive that we’ll play well at the weekend.”
