Nagelsmann has preferred Arsenal’s Kai Havertz up front in Germany’s wins against Curacao and Ivory Coast – but Undav has now made a strong case for a rethink.
“When the game opens up he is great moving around,” said the Germany boss.
“I could say keep your flow and it’s better you come in as the finisher. He really reached the highest point for the World Cup.
“I could have him in the starting line-up. Every player would love to start, but I think he is happy as it is now because he played an important role and we are happy with his performance.
“For Deniz it was clear, he gave us a lot in the last game when he was a sub. Deniz doesn’t need to be prepared, he can jump in right away.”
In his last start for Germany, Undav scored twice and provided an assist in a 4-0 friendly win against Finland on 31 May.
“It’s a great feeling,” said the Stuttgart forward after taking home the player-of-the-match award against the Ivorians.
“I wanted to have it last time, it didn’t work. Its wonderful, a fantastic feeling. For me to get the trophy is extraordinary, but the important thing is we won the game and go into the next round and see what happens.”
If he keeps up this form, more honours could be on the way – perhaps even the biggest prize of them all as Germany chase a fifth World Cup crown.
