Tonight, the Tottenham Hotspur player will receive his 75th cap for his country. You’re probably not alone if you’re shocked to hear that he has never before led his nation as captain.
In a moment of personal history, the armband will be worn by a man who earned his first cap a decade ago, as two of his Denmark’s most experienced players are out due to injury: Simon Kjaer of AC Milan and former Leicester City goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel.
A momentous evening for Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg of Tottenham
West Ham United at Tottenham Hotspur – Premier League
“I’m excited to be the national team’s captain for the first time,” Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg said in an interview with Tipsbladet. For me, it’s significant. It’s a reassuring clap. All I need to do is carry on with what I’ve been doing.
With just three months until Euro 2024, doubts regarding Hojbjerg’s match sharpness have been raised in Denmark due to his lack of playing time at the club level in recent months. Christian Eriksen of Manchester United, a former Tottenham star who now spends much of his time on the bench, is causing similar concerns.
However, Hojbjerg has received support from Denmark’s manager Kasper Hjulmand in both public and private settings. This was evident over the weekend when the former Southampton and Bayern Munich player was given nearly the entire 90 minutes in the goalless draw with Switzerland.
Hojbjerg remembers, “I will never forget when (former Denmark boss) Morten Olsen took hold of me and said that I had what it took to one day become captain.” At the time, I could probably count the number of international matches I had played on one hand.
“He was correct in that regard. After 75 games, (Olsen’s forecast) is realized. I’m really appreciative. To be among those who accept responsibility is an honor. I’d like to carry on doing that.
For the first time ever, Hojbjerg is the captain. His Tottenham contract is set to expire in slightly over a year. The London giants cashing in would not be shocking, since Ange Postecoglou seems to choose midfielders with a bit more flair when in control.
HITC Football is aware that Spurs are interested in Joao Gomes of Wolves, one of the Premier League’s most complete midfielders who recently scored a brace away against Tottenham. Ismail Yuksek of Fenerbahce is a further target.
Meanwhile, some of Spurs’ players who are on international duty have had a mixed few days. Brennan Johnson gave Wales a significant goal, although Radu Dragusin and Destiny Udogie had some forgettable moments.
