Bergensavisen has revealed Brann's plans for the right-back position ahead of their away match against Sandefjord in the Eliteserien. Manager Eirik Horneland has indicated that Thore Pedersen is likely to start in that role, even though the club recently signed two new players to strengthen their defense.
Who starts at right-back against Sandefjord?
According to Bergensavisen, signs point to Thore Pedersen replacing Denzel De Roeve from the start against Sandefjord. The newly signed right-back Leo Cornic had his first training session with Brann on Saturday, but he will probably have to settle for a place on the bench initially. Horneland explained the decision by stating Cornic isn't fully ready for 90 minutes. "He has been out for a while, and was on the bench for Tromsø last," said the Brann manager. Cornic himself confirmed he had a minor injury. "I've had a slight strain in my calf, but I'm completely fine now," said the 25-year-old, who last played on July 18.
How does the other new signing fit in?
The other new player, Neraysho Kasanwirjo, is more match-ready according to Horneland. The 24-year-old was a regular for Fortuna Sittard in the Netherlands until May and has completed pre-season with Feyenoord. He was brought in primarily as a centre-back but has experience at right-back from a loan spell at Molde last autumn. "He has played matches in Feyenoord's pre-season and is match-ready," said Horneland. The manager added that both new signings will likely get playing time during the match against Sandefjord. One possible scenario is Kasanwirjo coming into central defense, thereby pushing Pedersen out to full-back. Another option is for Vetle Dragsnes to start.
What is Sandefjord's current situation?
The match against Brann comes while Sandefjord sits in 13th place in the Eliteserien with 18 points from 17 games. The team has a record of 5 wins, 3 draws, and 9 losses. They have scored 15 goals and conceded 23, giving them a goal difference of minus eight. In the title race, they are a full 23 points behind leaders Bodø/Glimt. The team's standings show they need points to secure their position. Sandefjord also has several key players on the injury list, including Devon Koswal, Marcus Melchior, and Nikolaj Möller. Fans can follow player status on our injuries page.
What does this mean for Brann's team selection?
Brann will also be without midfielder Niklas Jensen Wassberg against Sandefjord. "He has suffered a knock. He won't be out long, but Sunday's match comes too soon," confirmed Horneland. This forces changes in the midfield line. The supporter organization Bataljonen has called on all traveling Brann fans to dress in black during the match to mark the passing of King Harald.
What awaits Sandefjord after this match?
After the clash with Brann, Sandefjord faces an important home match against Viking, who are second in the table. That game is played on September 4th, and you can find all upcoming matches on our fixtures page. To improve their 13th-place position, Sandefjord must find more stability, especially in defense where they have conceded over a goal per game on average. The team's stats show they need better efficiency at both ends of the pitch to turn around their negative form streak.
