Pep Guardiola’s right-hand man has praised the versatile defender for his consistency and feels he deserves individual recognition
Bayern Munich assistant coach Hermann Gerland has voiced his admiration for Philipp Lahm and has hailed the ex-Germany international’s reliability and consistency.
The 31-year-old has made over 400 official appearances for Bayern in all competitions since making his debut in 2002-03 and Gerland feels Lahm is the type of player who does well in whatever position his coach uses him.
“Phillip might not be spectacular, but you can play him wherever you want and he’ll be flawless,” Gerland told the official Bayern website.
“He is one of the world’s best players. He’s maintained an incredible level for the last 12 years.
“He has still never been Player of the Year, though, and that’s a catastrophe. He’s outstanding in 55 out of 60 matches per season, but that’s never been recognised.”
Lahm is currently recovering from an ankle injury that will keep him out of Bayern’s first match after the winter break away against Wolfsburg on January 30.
The Bavarians’ hold an 11-point lead over their opponents – who sit second in the Bundesliga table – heading into the match.