The Chicago Blackhawks defender will be used for the first time at the dress rehearsal in Switzerland
Defenseman Christian Ehrhoff from the Chicago Blackhawks of the National Hockey League (NHL) will strengthen the national team at the upcoming 2016 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship (May 6th - 22nd) in St. Petersburg. In the afternoon, Ehrhoff gave his final confirmation to national coach Marco Sturm. “I am very pleased that we can rely on such a strong and experienced player. "After the Blackhawks' early elimination, Christian is eager to represent his country at the World Cup," said Sturm, who emphasized that "it was he who immediately contacted us and declared his willingness to support the German selection. “
Ehrhoff surprisingly failed against the St. Louis Blues in game seven of the playoff series with defending champion Chicago on the night of Monday to Tuesday. The former defender of the Krefeld Pinguine is expected back in Germany this weekend. Ehrhoff's first appearance for the national team is planned next Tuesday, May 3rd, at the World Cup dress rehearsal in Switzerland (Basel) against the hosts (19.45 p.m., live on SPORT1).
“I have always said that I will play for the national team at any time if nothing comes up. For me it is an honor to wear the German jersey. I want to do my part to ensure that we play a good World Cup,” said Ehrhoff, who last played for the national team at the 2013 World Cup in Finland. In 84 international matches, the 33-year-old defender scored eleven goals and contributed 13 assists.