Hojbjerg urges Denmark to split midfield pairing with Hjulmand
Denmark captain Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg has urged coach Brian Riemer to split up his midfield pairing with Morten Hjulmand after the 3-2 UEFA Nations League loss to Norway, saying the two players are too similar to give the side the right balance.
Hojbjerg, who plays for Marseille, started in a more forward-looking box-to-box role at Ullevaal Stadion in Oslo, but Denmark still struggled to take command in central areas. The 29-year-old said Riemer may need to pick one holding midfielder rather than field both.
The captain said he would accept being left out of the starting side if that is what Denmark need, with the team’s interests taking priority over individual status. He is closing in on 100 senior international appearances.
Set-piece anger after Haaland winner
Hojbjerg also pointed to Denmark’s poor defensive organisation from dead-ball situations. Erling Haaland was unmarked in the penalty area when he turned in a low delivery from a short corner for Norway’s decisive goal.
Denmark’s skipper said a forward of Haaland’s calibre cannot be afforded that amount of room from a corner, describing the lapse as below the required international standard.
What happens next
- The Denmark squad return to Copenhagen and begin preparations for their next match.
- Riemer must decide whether to reshape his midfield or leave out either Hojbjerg or Hjulmand.
- Denmark host Wales at Parken on Sunday in their Group A4 fixture, seeking a home win to revive their Nations League campaign.
