Celtic star Kasper Schmeichel is set to captain Denmark in their UEFA Nations League quarter-final first leg against Portugal this Thursday in Copenhagen.
Having joined Celtic on a free transfer in the summer, Schmeichel has been instrumental in Brendan Rodgers’ side, with an impressive record of 24 clean sheets and 44 goals conceded from 46 appearances this season. His consistent performances for Celtic have played a significant role in maintaining his place in the Denmark squad.
Schmeichel’s Impact at Celtic
Since arriving at Celtic, Schmeichel has been a key figure at the back for the Hoops. His leadership and shot-stopping ability have seen him quickly settle into life at Celtic Park. The Danish international’s stellar form for Celtic has not gone unnoticed, and it has helped him retain his spot in the national team, despite the presence of stiff competition for the goalkeeper position from Chelsea goalkeeper Filip Jörgensen.
Denmark’s Manager Brian Riemer Relies on Schmeichel
Brian Riemer, who took charge of Denmark’s national team in November, has included Schmeichel in his squad for this international break. Denmark is set to face Portugal twice in the Nations League, and Riemer spoken about the significant role Schmeichel will play in these crucial games.
The Captaincy Role
Schmeichel’s leadership qualities are set to be on display once again, as Riemer has confirmed that the Celtic goalkeeper is likely to be handed the captain’s armband for the first leg against Portugal. Although Schmeichel captained Denmark during the Euros last summer, the armband was handed to Tottenham’s Pierre-Emile Højbjerg after the tournament. However, with Højbjerg unavailable due to injury, Riemer has revealed that Schmeichel is the most likely candidate to lead his country in March.
“It was important to me that it was the same person in both matches and someone who was on the field most of the time. Of course, there are more who could be,” Riemer, said: (Bold). “I’m 99.9% sure that this is him. I think this group has many leaders, and that everyone has a responsibility, so it makes the most sense for Kasper to be captain.”
England’s Joe Hart (R) and Denmark’s Kasper Schmeichel at the end of the match
Mandatory Credit: Action Images / Carl Recine
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A Leader for Years to Come
Riemer also highlighted Schmeichel’s ability to mentor the younger players within the squad. With several new faces in the Denmark camp, the manager believes the Celtic keeper’s experience will be invaluable for the development of the national team’s younger generation.
“I also think he has a lot to give to the young people. He is good at taking on that role, so in a group where there are also several new players, it makes good sense,” Riemer added.
As Schmeichel prepares to lead his country once again, Celtic fans will be eagerly watching to see how the veteran goalkeeper’s leadership impacts Denmark’s hopes of winning the Nations League.
