“I don’t think he works best in his role at Sheffield United,” national team manager Lagerbäck told NTB about Berges’ situation.
Sheffield had never before spent more money on a player when they signed the Asker boy in late January. Despite tremendous expectations, the Norwegian midfielder has prospered fully for the red and white stripes.
Since the record-breaking he has featured in seven games, five of which were from the start. In all five matches he has been replaced.
– Not exactly optimal role
Manager Chris Wilder and his men have been the Premier League’s big surprise this season. Before the corona break came the newly promoted club in the championship league, but after the football started rolling on the ball island again, they have not managed to pick up the glove where they left off.
– I don’t think he can contribute to his strength, says Lagerbäck, knowing that Berges club is practicing a 5-3-2 formation.
– He probably doesn’t quite have the optimal role there, as I think he should have. But it is up to the coach in Sheffield to judge where he thinks he is best, the Swede continues.
Don’t stress
Lagerbäck says he does not stress about Berges situation in the Yorkshire club.
– As long as he gets good playing time, I’m not worried about Sander. He has an incredibly competent player. He works hard for the team and does what he can out of the role he has.
The next opportunity for Berge to shine is the home match against Arsenal in the FA Cup on Sunday afternoon.
Ødegaard is also struggling
The situation is strikingly similar for Berges national team mate Martin Ødegaard in Spain. Having been very positive for much of the season, he has had to endure criticism for declining performance lately.
The drummer has currently scored four goals and five assists this season, but none of them after the corona break. After being able to play the entire first game after the break against Osasuna, he has been replaced in the last three games.
Ødegaard’s Real Sociedad meets Getafe away on Monday night.
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