Russell raid aids Rosenborg
Sunday, June 13, 2004
Article summary
Rosenborg BK's UEFA Champions League bid has been boosted by the signing of right-back Robbie Russell.
Article body
Rosenborg BK's bid to return to the UEFA Champions League group stage has been strengthened by the signing of versatile Sogndal IL right-back Robbie Russell, who will join when the Norwegian transfer window opens on 1 July.
Key signings
American defender Russell, who turns 25 next month, can adapt to play at left-back and as a defensive midfield player. With the arrival Russell along with last week’s signing of Swedish Under-21 left-back Mikael Dorsin, Ola By Rise's squad will now aim to the progress to the Champions League elite 32 from the second qualifying round and also overhaul Tromsø IL, who currently lead the Norwegian Premier Division on goal difference.
'Added competition'
"We expect both Dorsin and Russell to fight for a first team place straight away, said Rosenborg's sports director Rune Bratseth. "We wanted added competition in defence." Winners of the last 12 Norwegian championships, Rosenborg failed to earn a place in the Champions League group stage last season for the first time since 1995/96 after losing in the third qualifying round to SL Benfica
