‘It’s important that we take responsibility’ – Pierre-Emile Højbjerg on leadership role at Marseille | OneFootball

Speaking at a press conference attended by Get French Football News, Olympique de Marseille midfielder Pierre Emile-Højbjerg evoked his leadership role at the club, since joining this summer. “At the end of the day it’s important to have a few players that take the responsibility in the dressing room,” said the Denmark international to journalists at the Commanderie. “To raise the standards, it’s not just the first XI: a real team is made up of 15-17 players that share the same values and work well together during the week.” The Danish international has settled well into life at Marseille, having made 20 appearances so far for Les Phocéens. His on-pitch leadership has been a key feature of OM’s midfield lately with both Valentin Rongier and recently Ismaël Bennacer lining up alongside him. Alongside Adrien Rabiot, Højbjerg has emerged as one of the more vocal players on the pitch in Ligue 1 this season. But the Danish international has emphasised it’s not only his role, but one that is shared across the dressing room. “I’m not the papa,” Højbjerg said with a smile, “You need these kind of players who want to bring the team to success. I remember the last time we played Saint-Étienne, Kondogbia gave a really important speech in a simple and effective way.” “We are a team that are under construction, and we are transforming in a very positive way. Everyone has a role to play and everyone has their time to shine.” GFFN | George Boxall – Reporting from La Commanderie, Marseille.