Podolski shot ´unmatched´, says Solbakken

Cologne coach Stale Solbakken has compared striker Lukas Podolski to Argentina and Barcelona star Lionel Messi.

Podolski has been a revelation for the German side this season, scoring six goals in nine matches so far in the Bundesliga.

And the 26-year-old’s form has led Solbakken to suggest he possesses a sho which rivals that of star playmaker Messi.

“Messi has perhaps more finesse in his left foot, but Poldi’s shot power is unmatched in the world,” Solbakken told Bild.

Podolski netted twice last weekend to help his side to a 2-0 Bundesliga win at home to Hannover, and Solbakken said the club were lucky to have the German international at their disposal.

“His greatest weapons are his left foot and his speed. Poldi must have freedom. This is normal – all great artists are like that. Lukas is our best player. He can decide every game. But it is equally important that all 11 players work hard,” Solbakken said.

“It is fortunate that he plays here, because he could join in the attack at any top club in Europe.”

(Sporting director) Volker Finke and (chief executive) Claus Horstmann want to go into contract talks with him this winter.”

Podolski’s current contract with Cologne runs until the summer of 2013.