MIDDLESBROUGH (DA) — Sontje Hansen missed Middlesbrough’s Carabao Cup victory over Wrexham to build his fitness with the club’s Under-21 team following his late return from Curaçao’s World Cup campaign.
The 24-year-old forward played nearly 90 minutes against Sheffield United earlier Friday instead of joining the first-team squad for Middlesbrough’s 1–0 win. Will Lankshear scored the goal that sent Boro into the second round.
Manager Kim Hellberg said Hansen was not injured and remains behind some teammates in his preseason preparation.
“He came back late because of the World Cup, which means that he is a little bit behind with his physics and fitness,” Hellberg said.
The club determined that extended action with the Under-21s would benefit Hansen more than a brief appearance against Wrexham. Hellberg said the Curaçao international should be “ready to go next week.”
Hansen’s omission was not connected to an imminent transfer, although Middlesbrough could allow him to leave if it receives an acceptable offer. The club has added attacking options during the transfer window and is seeking to reduce the size of its squad.
The former Ajax and NEC Nijmegen player endured a difficult first season on Teesside and acknowledged after the campaign that he had not received as much playing time as he wanted.
Hellberg, however, said Hansen will continue to be considered while he remains at the club.
“He’s here and he’s training,” Hellberg said.