Celtic midfielder Mika Baur made his Germany debut in a 2-0 Nations League win over Serbia, becoming the 1000th player to represent the national side. The 22-year-old, a surprise inclusion by boss Jurgen Klopp, entered the match after 76 minutes and received a kiss from his manager on the touchline as he made history.
Historic debut for Celtic star
Baur, who joined Celtic in the summer from Paderborn, became the first Hoops player to represent Germany since Andreas Hinkel in 2009. The midfielder was called up by Klopp for the Nations League clashes against Netherlands, Greece and Serbia, and at the third time of asking the former Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund boss earned his first win as Germany manager.
Klopp's challenge and praise
After the match, Klopp revealed what he told Baur before he came on, saying: "[I told him that] He can really kick a ball well. We've really seen now that he's a wonderful footballer."
The national boss also challenged the playmaker, saying: "He moved from Paderborn to the toughest league in the world in the summer. And to succeed there he will need physical attributes, and to put himself through that, that's really something special."
Klopp added: "He's one player who constantly reminds me of a multiple Champions League winner. Not just in appearance, but also in his overall temperament."
Baur's reaction
Following his debut, Baur admitted he was still coming to terms with the step up to the German national team. He said: "It still felt surreal even after the final whistle. I can hardly describe it. My pulse was high, but then it was fine as soon as I stepped onto the field."
He added: "The team was truly incredible from the first to the last minute. Especially those attributes we discussed: this counter-pressing and being tenacious – and yet combined with fantastic players in the team who can play amazing football. I think today was a highlight for everyone."
