Sander Berge was part of the Norway XI that was humbled by Spain yesterday in what was a routine 3-0 win for the former world champions.
The Sheffield United midfielder was played in a more unfamiliar wider role for Norway. And that lack of familiarity with the position certainly showed.
Berge put in a display way below the levels he is capable of. At Sheffield United, there have been games where Berge has been influential. However, he was far off it for his country as they were simply overwhelmed by Spain.
Passive
One criticism some Sheffield United fans have levelled at Berge in the past is how he seems to let certain games pass him by instead of taking them by the scruff of the neck.
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And that was the opinion of Norwegian TV station TV2, who gave Berge a rather woeful 3/10 for his performance.
“Another international match below par for Berge. In an unfamiliar role on the wing, he is too passive and does not get to the ball handler properly, for example during Spain’s first goal. Somewhat better after half an hour, but is far from its peak level,” TV2 wrote.
Sheffield United News View: Berge coming back fit is all that matters
The Blades face an absolutely crucial run of games when the international break is done and dusted with. And while it’s disappointing to see Berge do so poorly for Norway, we only really care that he comes back fit.
If Berge can indeed return in perfect shape then that’s all that matters really.
Yes, it would be nice to see him play well for his country. But at the end of the day, Berge and United’s ultimate goal right now is to get to the Premier League. And if that means he’s not quite at it for Norway, well, then so be it.
