A pillar of strength

It was the first time in the 2023/24 season that head coach Ole Werner didn’t make any changes to his starting line-up from the previous week. On the one hand, Werder’s head coach didn’t have to worry about any further injuries; on the other hand, those who started the last game proved themselves enough to keep their place in the team. This includes the midfield axis formed between Leonardo Bittencourt, Romano Schmid and Jens Stage. “Leo plays a little more defensively, whilst Romano has a more attacking role,” explained Stage, who is the last line of defence in front of the back three. “It’s worked really well recently. I’m trying to bring my strengths to the pitch.”

The right-footed midfielder provided SV Werder with a lot of stability thanks to his committed approach to defending. Stage dominated his battles and boasted the best challenge success rate on the pitch (71.4%). The former Denmark international is currently getting used to his new position on the pitch. “As a box-to-box midfielder, I can push further up the pitch,” he explained. “As a defensive midfielder, I have to work on being calmer on the ball.”

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The Dane’s match statistics certainly make for a glowing report so far this season. Over the last few games, SV Werder’s consistent line-up due to a lack of absentees has improved their performance out of possession. “We are all working really well, keeping compact, and giving the opposition fewer chances,” shared Stage, who is fully devoted to his team. “It’s more difficult for me to play as a defensive midfielder, because I normally work from box-to-box. However, I’m keen to help out wherever I’m needed.”

⏱️ 52′

Stage’s header JUST goes wide ????????#werder#wobsvw 1-1 pic.twitter.com/HOs46WhdiG

— SV Werder Bremen EN (@werderbremen_en) November 5, 2023