Arsenal midfielder Christian Nørgaard has revealed a conversation with Mikel Arteta over a change in role, which Denmark would absolutely encourage.
Tipsbladet have comments from the Arsenal man today. He discusses his ongoing transition into a centre-back with the Danish outlet.
The 32-year-old joined the Gunners from Brentford in the summer transfer window in one of the more low-key deals of the summer.
He hasn’t seen much action since, largely playing a back up role for Arsenal this season. That’s due to the competition for places in Arsenal’s midfield, which is full of talent.
Arsenal position change
As a result, the Danish midfielder is now in the process of being trained to be able to play further back. Arteta has started using Nørgaard as a central defender, which Denmark are keeping a close eye on.
A transition to that position would be very useful for national coach Riemer. Several of his players in that position are currently either injured or suspended.
Therefore Nørgaard, a player with 39 caps, ‘great defensive understanding’ and tactical discipline could become extra valuable to him. The Arsenal man, for his part, is open to the transition.
“It actually suits me very well,” he told Viaplay.
“As a defender, you have a lot of the game in front of you. In the long run, it could be a good and suitable position for me. It’s nice to have a phase where I try it out.
“I will embrace and enjoy that. I am sure that it can be a good opportunity in the matches where we have some problems.”
National team keen
Riemer has shown strong interest in the development. He has already explored using Nørgaard as a defender and even visited Arsenal to speak with the player and Arteta about the switch.
“It’s always nice when time is set aside for something like this,” added Nørgaard.
“We were just talking about this potential opportunity for me to play centre-back. It was great that Brian could hear what thoughts and challenges Arsenal have had, says the midfielder.”
The switch is an interesting development for the 32‑year‑old, whose career has largely unfolded in midfield.
To date he’s made 243 appearances in defensive midfield, 79 in central midfield and even 24 in attacking midfield. In contrast, he’s on 10 appearances as a central defender.
That suggests a steep learning curve could be on the way. But it’s clearly something Arsenal and Denmark are keen on pushing along.