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West Ham must stop Frankfurt wingback Filip Kostic if they want to return to Sevilla
West Ham face one of Europe’s most “perfect” wingbacks as Frankfurt’s Filip Kostic, 29, looks to continue his fine European form at the London stadium.
Kostic has been dubbed by German broadcaster Deutsche Welle, as the “Perfect Wingback.”
As per DW, “The 29-year-old offers a well-rounded skill set, a powerful left-foot and a strong work ethic.
“Which has moulded him into the perfect wingback for both offence and defence in the Bundesliga and Europe.”
The Serbian international has 21 goal involvements so far this season and has become one of Frankfurt’s key threats.
The 29-year-old dubbed his own performance at the Nou Camp as the best of his career.
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The wingback scored twice in a famous 3-2 victory in front of a stunned home crowd.
Too much for the Hammers?
Kostic will be facing a West Ham side with crippling injury problems, particularly in defence.
Kurt Zouma and Angelo Ogbonna have recently been joined by Issa Diop on the sidelines, meaning Craig Dawson is the Hammer’s only fit centre half.
However, as per Deutsche Welle’s analysis of Kostic, the Serbian operates down the left flank.
However, West Ham do still have two fit right-backs in Ben Johnson and Vladimir Coufal to help nullify the Frankfurt man’s threat.
Although, the Serbian’s excellent defensive ability will mean Coufal and Johnson will have to be at their offensive best to provide any service to the sometimes isolated Michail Antonio upfront.
As for Kostic, his contract is up in 2023 and this European semi-final is an excellent opportunity to put himself in the shop window this summer.
As per the Independent’s Miguel Delaney in his newsletter, Tottenham are said to be interested in the Serbian.
The wingback would certainly be an excellent addition to Antonio Conte’s 3-4-3 system
In other West Ham news, Frankfurt coach Oliver Glasner insists his side are fully fit and “intensely focussed” on their Europa League clash with West Ham.
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