Sigurd Rosted is ready to play for Sarpsborg 08. The 32-year-old defender has been sidelined for over four and a half months with an ankle injury but is now back in full training and declares himself match-fit ahead of the Østfold derby.
According to Sarpsborg Arbeiderblad, Rosted has undergone surgery and a long rehabilitation period. He is now back at Sarpsborg Stadion and says he is looking forward to contributing again. - I am ready, Rosted told the newspaper.
Why is his return important now?
The team's defence has struggled with injuries and instability this season. Sarpsborg 08 sit ninth in the Eliteserien with 24 points from 19 games, and they have just played two consecutive draws against Vålerenga and Tromsø. You can follow the team's upcoming schedule on our fixtures page.
Rosted's experience and physical presence could be decisive in a tight match. Fredrikstad, whom they face away on Sunday 13 September, are just one place and one point ahead of Sarpsborg in the table. This makes the derby a direct battle for a better mid-table position.
What is the team's current situation?
With Rosted back, the manager gains more options in the defensive line. The team has conceded 25 goals in their 19 league matches, an area they will want to improve. View the full squad and player statistics here.
The last match ended 2-2 at home to Vålerenga, a game in which Sarpsborg came back from being behind. The unbeaten run of two games means the team is undefeated lately but needs wins to climb towards the top half.
What does this mean for derby preparations?
Preparations for Sunday's key away game against their neighbours get a boost with Rosted's return. His leadership and familiarity with such high-pressure fixtures will be valuable for a young squad.
The match is at Fredrikstad Stadion at 18:00. A victory could move Sarpsborg 08 past FFK in the standings.
