Niklas Moisander chooses his words carefully. Very rarely does Werder’s defensive man make any rash statements and has clear yet considered views. The 33 year old was asked about two of the most pertinent issues on his role in the side: the current team news and the question of captaincy.
The centre-back is surprisingly relaxed over the injuries of his defensive partners Milos Veljkovic and Sebastian Langkamp. Although the situation “isn’t ideal”, Moisander believes the pair will be “ready” come the start of the season. The defenders are convinced that the lack of time spent training together is not a negative factor ahead of the new season. Moisander was full of praise for Marco Friedl, who signed for the club permanently in the summer. “I am very convinced of his ability. It is good that Werder have managed to sign him,” laughs Moisander.
“Last season, Marco showed that he has a lot of potential and I think he can take the next step this season. He can start a lot with the ball at his feet and build the play,” believes Moisander. For the former Finland international, Friedl’s strengths are apparent. “Marco has a lot of belief in his abilities on the ball. He can see the free man and sometimes takes a risk in the buildup play, which I like.”
In Friedl, Moisander sees a potential replacement for his position in defence, as the pair are “similar types of player”. At the same time, the 33 year old insisted that this season wont be his last. “I love football.” On the fact that he has been considered the next captain of the club following Max Kruse’s departure, Moisander says he can understand why people may think as much, but that he doesn’t expect to become captain purely because he was the vice captain last season. “I think we have a lot of suitable candidates; it is good for the club.” Only time will tell.
Moisander was also full of praise for other teammates, stating that Davy Klaassen had demonstrated his suitability for captaincy during his time with Ajax, and that Maximilian Eggestein should also be considered despite his young age. “He is really mature both on and off the field. He already has a big role in the team and for me, he has the chance to be the captain both now and in the future.”
