Report: Burkardt's slow start undermines Frankfurt's pursuit of Bayern

Prior to the Bundesliga season's start, Eintracht Frankfurt were tipped as the favourite by many to rival Bayern Munich for the meisterschale.

After last night's 3-1 defeat to Bayer Leverkusen, coach Dino Toppmöller hoped “all this shit will stop now” regarding their role as Bayern hunters.

Perhaps one reason to doubt their credentials, as Frankfurter Rundschau reports, is Jonathan Burkardt's slow start to life with Die Adler.

Burkardt had only 17 touches of the ball in his 83 minutes on the pitch against Leverkusen, coupled with one promising shot in the penalty area.

The attacker was also unable to head home a good cross on 37 minutes from Jean-Matteo Bahoya on a quiet night for the 25-year-old.

"It wasn't easy for Jonny. Leverkusen closed down the center well. It wasn't an easy game for him," said sporting director Markus Krösche.

“Ultimately, it's a question of rhythm. Jonny was sidelined by his back problem before the international break," added coach Toppmöller.

Frankfurt have been blessed with previous new strikers like Randal Kolo-Muani, Andre Silva Omar Marmoush and Hugo Ekitiké hitting the ground running - perhaps now patience is key.

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