The midfielder is yet to feature in a competitive game this season, so what does this mean for Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg?
There is no doubt over the 22-year-old’s ability and potential. The Danish international joined on a five-year deal last July from German giants Bayern Munich. Impressive from the go, Hojbjerg was named Saints Player of the Month for August. But since then, has not hit the same heights.
It was thought that a loan move would help the six-one man develop his game elsewhere. However, still part of the first team squad, it would seem that Pellegrino has Hojbjerg in his plans.
The former Bayern man did play in pre-season, but has not featured since. Including the EFL cup defeat to Wolves. Many believe that Hojbjerg had picked up another injury. However has now been spotted in first team training, citing that he is close to return.
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So where does Hojbjerg fit into Pellegrino’s plans? Due to his physicality and stature, and being utilised as a deep playmaker or box-to-box midfielder at previous clubs. Many would agree that the Dane is suited to being one of the two CDM’s.
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This would help take the workload off the likes of Oriol Romeu in breaking up play, plus help prevent Saints from being out-strengthened in the middle of the park. This an issue in their most recent game versus Watford, which ended in an embarrassing defeat.
However, he is unlikely to start ahead of Mario Lemina, another player with similar qualities, who is a new addition. Though Hojbjerg would offer more depth in the squad in the case of injury, suspension and to create competition. Plus for squad rotation when the game schedule starts to thicken due to the busy Christmas schedule.
On a finishing note, it would also be in the interest of Saints and Pellegrino to give the young midfielder game-time. This to try and unlock his potential, as it is clear that Hojbjerg has an abundance of it.