MY ACCOUNT
Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg is a manager’s dream when it comes to consistency and following orders.
The Danish destroyer has been an ever-present in Tottenham’s midfield since his arrival from Southampton in the summer of 2020 and has taken his game to a new level under Antonio Conte.
Hojbjerg, 27, has featured in every Premier League game for the North Londoners this season and has only been withdrawn prior to the final whistle once.
Ahead of Spurs’ blockbuster clash with Manchester United tonight, we turn the spotlight on the 60-cap international.
Engine power
Midfield maestro Hojbjerg is a workaholic and will pop up in every area of the pitch during any given contest.
Hojbjerg has provided some crucial contributions for Spurs in the final third this season, netting three league goals alongside one assist.
But when the former Saints man is not combining with Harry Kane and Heung-Min Son in attack, he is helping protect Hugo Lloris in goal with last-gasp clearances and blocks.
In his first 10 Premier League games of this campaign, Hojbjerg has made 16 tackles, 13 interceptions and 17 clearances.
This is testament to his fantastic work-rate as he follows his passes and looks to drive through midfield on the counter-attack.
Spurs’ No5 also ranks in the division’s top 10 for passes completed, meaning when he is not chasing after the ball, he is dictating the play.
Natural leader
Nicknamed ‘The Viking’ by Spurs fans, Hojbjerg is a likeable character who is hugely respected by his peers.
His partnership with Rodrigo Bentancur in the middle of the park is the perfect match, with the Uruguayan often pulling out the fancy flicks and turns while his Scandinavian colleague steadies the ship in the face of any mistakes.
The former Bayern Munich star is also very vocal on the pitch and is not shy when it comes to expressing his delight or frustration.
He can often be seen celebrating a last-ditch tackle or congratulating his team-mates when they score.
Hojbjerg’s goal against Everton last Saturday was a perfect example of both his intelligence and determination to make an impact.
After seeing the ball won back by Kane, he recognised the absence of the striker in the final third and darted forward, eventually latching on to Bentancur’s cross to steer home.
Under the radar
Much like Kane, Hojbjerg is not the most naturally gifted player in the world, but his hard work is what separates him from the regular crop.
He has been quietly consistent for the best part of two years at Spurs and only now is he beginning to receive the recognition that he deserves.
His performances have drawn praise from many pundits, including former Spurs player Garth Crooks.
On Hojbjerg’s performance against the Toffees, Crooks said: “I don’t know why I was so surprised.
“Hojbjerg has been a brilliant addition to the team and quietly consistent for some considerable time.”
Another ex-Spurs player, Jamie O’Hara, has also been lavishing compliments, saying: “I watch him play a lot, and I think he is fantastic.
“He gets in Liverpool’s midfield, he gets in Manchester United’s midfield. For me, he is one of the best midfielders in the country. I think he is underrated.”
Sharing the wealth
In the past, Spurs have been reliant on Kane and Son to score the majority of their goals — but under the guidance of Conte, Hojbjerg is now thriving in a more attacking role.
The use of three central defenders gives license for the midfield pivot to get forward and the 6ft 2in talent has translated his fine international form into domestic prowess.
Having provided three assists for Denmark in their impressive run to the semi-finals of Euro 2020, it is clear that Hojbjerg can be utilised further up the pitch too.
This is something Conte agrees with and the former Inter Milan coach believes his first-choice midfielder has what it takes to reach the top.
He said: “Pierre’s a really good prospect to become a really top midfielder.
“For sure he has to continue to work in the way he is doing. I am absolutely satisfied about his performance.”
