Sport Bild reports that Werder Bremen keeper Michael Zetterer has beaten out younger rival Mio Backhaus in the battle for the team’s No. 1 slot. Zetterer had been linked with a move away from the Bundesliga, most recently to West Ham United. The Hammers nevertheless recently decided to a sign a different keeper and Zetterer, despite loose links elsewhere, will most likely be remaining put.
Bremen extended with Backhaus this summer and the battle between the 21-year-old prospect and the 30-year-old veteran raged throughout training camp. In the end, newly appointed Bremen head coach Horst Steffen decided on Zetterer. The German tabloid notes that both keepers have been informed. Backhaus may start in the Pokal, but Zetterer will enter the league campaign as the starter.
Steffen’s decision was perhaps influenced by the fact that there’s been far too much personnel tumult on the Bremen squad this summer. Marvin Ducksch’s recent move to Birmingham City leaves the Hanseaten without veteran leadership up front. Zetterer at least gives the team some experienced stability at the back.
Bremen enter the start of competitive play with a 29-man-squad beset by injuries. The wingback corps is quite thin without the likes of Mitchell Weiser and Olivier Deman. Danish attacker Jens Stage also looks to be out until at least September. Steffen’s team have scored just one goal in their last five pre-season friendlies.
GGFN | Peter Weis
