Only one goal in 30 games: Poulsen relies on Ronaldo effect

Yussuf Poulsen takes his meager goal haul with humor and makes people sit up and take notice with noteworthy statistics. "I think Cristiano Ronaldo also had zero goals in the first 25 games," said the Denmark international from RB Leipzig. Poulsen means the record in the Champions League - and the superstar from Portugal once even celebrated his goal debut only in the 27th game. Poulsen himself currently stands at one goal in 30 games in the premier league.

His accuracy is, of course, not the reason why he has regained his regular place and will probably also be in the starting eleven on Wednesday evening (21.00 clock/DAZN) against Manchester City. Poulsen is a fighter, runs after every ball and annoys opposing defenders with his robustness. "I'm happy to be properly fit again. It took me a while to get back to this level," said the 29-year-old.

The Dane, who has been playing in Leipzig for more than a decade, has had a period of suffering for almost two years. Again and again pinched a muscle or the immune system caused problems. In the summer, Poulsen was considered a candidate for sale, but his status as an identification figure saved him from the siding.

And now? Is the predominant topic the extension of the contract running until 2024. "The topic is being discussed right now. I have Bock on Leipzig," said Poulsen. The signature is only a matter of time. Especially since the brawny attacker is set next to the lively and accurate Lois Openda. Coach Rose appreciates Poulsen immensely for the fact that he is not too good for any dirty work.

That Poulsen improves his scoring record against City is rather unlikely - a sense of achievement of the team unbeaten for seven games, however, not. "We are in the mode in to play top games," said Poulsen. First the 2:2 against Bayern Munich, now the revenge for the 0:7 against City from March should come. But it won't be without suffering: "There will be phases in which we stand deep and run after the ball. We have to accept this phase and make it as short as possible." To date, by the way, Ronaldo, who is now active in Saudi Arabia, has scored 140 goals in 183 games in the premier league.