Promotion hero at Leverkusen, bronze medallist with Olympic team
In 1977, he joined Bayer 04. Bayer 04 coach Willibert Kremer thought very highly of him. The career prospects at Bayer 04 were also appealing. As a qualified radio and television technician, Thommy was able to work in automation technology at the factory. He immediately became a first-team regular at Bayer 04. With his technical ability, footballing intelligence, strength in challenges and stamina, he developed into a key member of the team and won promotion to the Bundesliga with Bayer 04 in 1979.
When Erich Ribbeck took charge of the Werkself in 1985, he converted Thommy into a sweeper. In that role, he developed into one of the best German players in that position. His long legs earned him the nickname ‘Krake’ (octopus). In 1986, Franz Beckenbauer called him up to the Germany squad. At almost 30 years of age, Thomas made his debut for Germany in a 2–0 win in Denmark. However, he only made four appearances for the senior national team.
He enjoyed the most successful period of his playing career between 1985 and 1988. He missed the 1988 UEFA Cup final due to injury. That is why he describes the bronze medal at the 1988 Olympic Games in Seoul as the personal highlight of his career. Germany lost to Brazil in the semi-finals, but beat Italy 3–0 in the third-place play-off.
Successful youth coach
In 1991, Thommy retired from playing after 456 matches with the Werkself. He remained loyal to the game. He initially worked in the youth academy at Bayer 04 and went on to become a successful youth coach. In 2000, he won the German Championship with the U19s. Shortly after that, he took charge of the Bayer 04 reserve team and, in February 2003, took over the first team. Bayer 04 were in the thick of a relegation battle in the Bundesliga. He managed to turn things round for a short while. But following a 4-1 defeat at Hamburger SV with three games to play before the end of the season, Tommy’s time as head coach came to an end and he returned to youth coaching.
