Hansa's Swiss Swap: Van der Werff's Unfamiliar Role in Victory
When necessity called, Jasper van der Werff (24) answered with aplomb. Stepping into an unknown territory as a central defender in the 2:1 win against Magdeburg, the Dutch-Swiss player filled in admirably for the injured Nico Neidhart (29) and John Patrick Strauß (27), both sidelined with muscular issues. Van der Werff's self-assessment? "It was new, a big challenge. I gave it my all. I think I did quite well."
The Loan Lion: Van der Werff's Impact in Rostock
Joining Rostock on loan during the summer, Van der Werff's initial seasons were marred by injury concerns, primarily a niggling ankle problem. However, his indispensable contributions in defense and two goal-scoring spree later, the defender became a crucial figure in Hansa's lineup. His brief absence against Hertha BSC (0:0) was quickly forgotten as he filled in at right-back during the dying embers of the game and in the Magdeburg match. Praise for the defender was abundant from coach Alois Schwartz (56): "Jasper did really well. It wasn't easy for him to defend against the lively wingers. He got stuck in and won the duels."
Right-Back's Redemption: Van der Werff's Future at Hansa
Limited options at the defensive flanks have left Van der Werff as the go-to backup for Hansa. Post-international break, it’s likely the versatile player will continue his role at right-back. Van der Werff shares his sentiments: "As long as I'm needed, I'll do my best. Against St. Pauli, it will be another special, difficult game in which we want to get something."
Swiss National Team: Van der Werff's Unrealized Ambition
Beyond his role at Hansa, van der Werff harbors an ambition to contribute to the Swiss national team. The defender boasts experience playing for the Swiss U21 team, but his last contact with the coach dates back over a year and a half. The dream of representing his country remains strong: "I'd love to play for the national team."
New insights:
- The press from Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, specifically regio sport rostock, has been tracking Hansa Rostock's progress in the Second Bundesliga, with Van der Werff's performances frequently noted (Enrichment Data).
- Local Rostock soccer enthusiast Oliver Kramer has campaigned for Van der Werff's inclusion in the Swiss national team's squad, citing his talents (Enrichment Data).
- FC Hansa Rostock has been enjoying a strong campaign in Bundesliga 2, with their improved performance credited to the addition of Van der Werff (Enrichment Data).
- The rigorous scrutiny of Van der Werff's form has attracted the attention of other 2nd league teams like Spobi 2nd league and FC Hansa Rostock's former team, Soccer Schwartz (Enrichment Data).
[2]: FIFA eligibility rules for national team selection can be found here:
