Jonathan Klinsmann reacted well to being called too American – coach

Hertha Berlin goalkeeping coach Zsolt Petry has praised Jonathan Klinsmann four months after criticising the player’s work ethic.

In March, the United States youth international — son of former Germany captain and U.S. coach Jurgen Klinsmann — was blasted by the Hertha goalkeeping coach for being “too American” and lacking work ethic.

However, Petry told reporters that the 21-year-old, who is under contract until 2019, has improved his position at the club after accepting the criticism and working on his weaknesses.

“Jonathan has shown the right reaction,” Petry said. “He now saves balls he did not save before. He invests even more time in his body, spends more time in the weights room, puts in extra units. I am impressed.

“He reflected himself instead of victimising himself, that’s a good sign. He might have been mad at me because of my strong words, but it’s my job as a coach to clearly show him how he can get better.”

Klinsmann joined Hertha from college in California, and is one of six keepers under contract at the capital club.

Alongside 19-year-old Dennis Smarsch, who signed his first professional contract this week, he competes for the position as the club’s third-choice behind the two experienced goalkeepers Rune Jarstein, 33, and Thomas Kraft, 30.