AFP, Stuttgart :
With six goals in eight internationals, Timo Werner seems to be the answer to Germany’s quest for a world-class striker, yet the fleet-footed forward remains unpopular with some German fans.
The 21-year-old, a classic striker, netted twice in Monday’s 6-0 thrashing of Norway, but Germany must wait until their next World Cup qualifier, against Northern Ireland in Belfast on October 5, to secure their Russia 2018 place.
Werner came off to a standing ovation in Stuttgart, a far cry from the jeers and verbal abuse he suffered at the hands of German fans in Prague last Friday.
“That meant a lot to me, because this is my home town,” said Stuttgart-born Werner after his double against Norway.
“I grew up here and I am pleased I could score twice to pay back the fans.
“Things were different, in terms of the emotion and attitude, compared to the Czech Republic match, we took it seriously from the first minute today.
“I believe we have got more used to the system, which the boys have been using for a while.
“Personally, I am delighted to have scored so often, it’s been a lot of fun.
“I never thought it would turn out like this for me and I am so happy about it.”
