Sporting have already picked Morten Hjulmand’s replacement | OneFootball

Sporting’s preparations for the home match against Casa Pia, in the 18th round of the League, force Rui Borges into yet another exercise in adaptation. In addition to the persistent wave of injuries — which has already led to the use of a 15th defensive lineup this season — the coach will also be unable to count on Morten Hjulmand, who is suspended, opening up a sensitive spot in Sporting’s midfield.

This is where Hidemasa Morita emerges as the main solution to replace the captain. The Japanese international is set to partner with João Simões, an option that, from the outset, has the coach’s confidence, who has openly admired the qualities of the number 5 even before taking charge of the team. Morita’s tactical intelligence, ability to read the game, and decision-making in ball circulation make him the most natural replacement.

There is, however, one caveat: his physical condition. The 30-year-old midfielder has been performing below his usual level, due to recurring muscle problems that have affected his consistency. Even so, even far from his ideal peak, he is still seen internally as a player capable of providing balance and quality in building out from the back, in a sector deprived of its main pillar.

Other alternatives exist — Giorgi Kochorashvili or even Daniel Bragança — but all raise more doubts than certainties, whether due to lack of chemistry, competitive rhythm, or suitability for the number 6 position. In this context, Morita clearly has the advantage in the hierarchy.

The absence of Morten Hjulmand is significant — the Dane has played every minute for the squad, with 2,342 minutes in 26 games —, but it opens a window for Morita to once again take on a leading role in a midfield where he has already been a key player. For Rui Borges, this is less of a risky bet and more of a test of the response capacity of a player who continues to command enormous respect at Alvalade.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.