Why 'grown-up' Sander Berge feels he can cope with Sheffield United isolation after coronavirus lockdown

Sander Berge says his experience of growing up quickly and spending a lot of time away from his native Norway is helping him cope with the coronavirus crisis.
By Danny Hall
Published 1st Apr 2020, 13:30 BST
Sander BergeSander Berge
Sander Berge

The young midfielder became Sheffield United's record signing when he made the £22m move from Genk in January, after three years in Belgium.

The Covid-19 lockdown means Berge is now alone in Sheffield, although he is keeping in touch with family and friends back home via FaceTime and his games console.

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"It's a strange time," he admitted. "But football comes second in these tough periods.

"I am very privileged that I’m a football player who is fit and healthy and can stay happy and motivated for the next part to come. It is tough but I’ve been alone before I was isolated in Belgium so guess I’m quite used to it.

"I do a lot of workouts throughout the day and FaceTime with friends back home. I’m healthy and fine."

Berge, the Norwegian international, spoke to local journalists this afternoon via Skype from his apartment.

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"Since I was young I've always played with players older than me, and my brother is eight years older than me," he added.

"So I feel like I am old in my own ways, and have been from a young age. I feel I have grown a lot and can handle situations like this.

"I am fit, happy, a Sheffield United player. So I have nothing to complain about in what is a terrible time for many people."

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Related topics:Sander BergeNorwayBelgiumSheffield

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