Hofmann scores brace in Europa League return as Leverkusen beat Crete

Jonas Hofmann celebrated his return to the Europa League with a brace as Bayer Leverkusen defeated OFI Crete 2-0 on Thursday.

Hofmann wasn't named by coach Carles Martinez to Leverkusen's 23-man Europa League squad at the start of the season. However, he was included in the roster ahead of the match against OFI Crete following Martin Terrier's injury.

The midfielder broke the deadlock in the 35th minute. Goalkeeper Klidman Lilo blocked Afonso Moreira's effort but Hofmann was quick to collect the rebound and score from close range.

Just three minutes later, he was again on target with a clinical strike after Malik Tillman's assist.

Leverkusen are second in the standings, tied with leaders Benfica on nine points, and are unbeaten in the competition so far with three wins in as many games.

Hofmann, meanwhile, will hope to get more playing time as he has barely been on the pitch so far also in other competitions.

"Of course it feels good," he said of his goals. "I can't do more than that. I was called up as a replacement, flew with the team, was allowed to play, and did my job. The coach will make the next decisions again."

Martinez praised the player for his good performance and for helping the team.

"As always, when I put him on the pitch, I don't have to explain anything to him. He knows what we want and he understands perfectly what we need. Today we needed him," the coach said.