Fritz confirms that Zetterer is Bremen’s new #1

In their post-match comments following Saturday’s defeat to Bayer 04 Leverkusen, SV Licensing Director Clemens Fritz let slip that that Michael Zetterer was now the team’s first-choice keeper. 

Long-time SV Werder Bremen keeper Jiri Pavlenka remained on the bench Saturday afternoon, despite the fact that the Czech international was once again fit and available after having to sit out the last five league fixtures with injury. Contrary to statements he made late last month, Clemens Fritz let it slip that Ole Werner and his coaching staff have now opted to keep Michael Zetterer as the team’s #1.

“The decision has now been made,” Fritz told the Sky mics after Saturday’s loss, “Of course you don’t change goalkeepers week in, week out, that doesn’t help you. As a goalkeeper, you also need a certain amount of security and backing.”

“Zetti had given the team stability,” Fritz added, “especially with the ball at his feet. But he has also thwarted a lot of the chances from our opponents. [Pavlenka accepted his demotion] professionally. Much respect to him [Pavlenka].

Presumably, Pavelnka will seek to transfer out during the coming January transfer window in order to enhance his prospect of starting for his native country during the coming Euros. Asked about a potential sale of the 31-year-old – who maintains a €3.5 million estimated market worth in the latest transfermarkt listings – Fritz insisted that “this is not yet an issue for us.”

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