Of course, Affengruber's recent development has not escaped the coach's notice. "He's making a great impression. After the transfer, he played two top matches against opponents like Liverpool and Manchester United – you have to be able to do that first," says Rangnick.
He added: "He confirmed his performance today, not just because of the goal."
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Schmid's Work and Ritscher's Contribution
The goal resulted from a set-piece. Much to the delight of new assistant coach Maximilian Ritscher, who is now responsible for this at the ÖFB team and has practised several variations with the team in recent days.
Romano Schmid is very often the executor. "He already said yesterday in training that he delivers such good balls, someone just has to put them in. Today it worked," laughs Affengruber.
Rangnick praises: "That was a superb goal. A great free-kick from Romano. You can't put it much better into the far corner."
A Goal Celebration as a Birthday Gift
During the goal celebration, the defender formed an M with his fingers and blew a kiss – it was for his loved one, who celebrated her birthday on Sunday. A gift you don't get every day…
Only one small fly in the ointment was to be lamented: Affengruber conceded the penalty that led to Kosovo's goal.
"We would have liked to keep a clean sheet," Affengruber laments. He doesn't quite understand the whistle itself: "I went into the tackle a bit uncontrolled, but I played the ball first, then the opponent. You don't have to whistle that."
For Rangnick, it was "no penalty."
The Competition is High
The England-based player has certainly put himself forward for further starting XI appearances with an overall strong performance.
However, the competition for the centre-back position is high, although Kevin Danso is suspended due to yellow cards for the match in Ireland.
Philipp Lienhart returns after his break against Kosovo, Marco Friedl came off the bench in the 79th minute this time, and Felix Bacher was not used at all.
Rangnick Hopes for Bacher's Debut
The Lyon professional would be the next debutant that Rangnick introduces during this international break.
And he apparently intends to do so. The coach says: "I hope that Bacher gets the opportunity from the coach in the next two games because he is also doing really well in training. He is a young player about whom one can be excited to see what happens."
"Exciting, Interesting, and Very Thrilling"
Affengruber is asked if he expects to play in Dublin. "That's not my decision. If I'm needed, I'll be there," he says.
Whatever happens, one thing is clear. "My last few weeks have been exciting, interesting, and very thrilling," he laughs.
