Nottingham Forest man Mohamed Drager is currently at the World Cup playing for Tunisia. Yesterday, his country lost 1-0 to Australia and their hopes of a knockout berth are dependent on them beating world champions France.
Drager is yet to play for Forest. He checked in during the summer of 2021 but hasn’t been able to force his way into Steve Cooper’s plans and is currently on loan with FC Luzern of the Swiss top-flight.
Yesterday, Tunisia were disappointing as they lost to Australia. A goal from Mitchell Duke in the 23rd minute was enough to earn a big three points for the Socceroos and leave the African nation on the brink.
The performance of Drager was interesting though. He lined up in a right-sided wing-back position and did a pretty decent job during the first half before being subbed at half-time by his manager.
Some statistics from Who Scored showcase how steady he was. He made three tackles and registered three clearances, whilst he also received a 6/10 from The Guardian for his performance.
The publication wrote: “Busy and lively in the first half, but also wasteful. He delayed his shot, allowing Harry Souttar to make a last-ditch block, and was removed at half-time following a head knock. That change allowed coach Jalel Kadri to revert to a more threatening 4-3-3.”
Drager hopes of World Cup progression in the balance
The 26-year-old should get one more chance to shine in Qatar. Tunisia face world champions France in their last game and they absolutely have to win to have any chance of reaching the last 16.
Drager’s club future looks uncertain. He will remain in Switzerland for the 2022/23 campaign and then he will be out of contract during the summer and is unlikely to earn a Forest reprieve.
It has to be said that his signing looks bizarre. He’s made one unused substitute appearance for the Reds and looks unlikely to play for the club before he leaves during the summer.
Drager has done pretty well when called upon in Qatar. Now, he will hope to finish with a flourish and then throw himself in the shop window ahead of next summer when he’s likely to become a free agent.