One to Watch – Morten Gamst Pedersen

Morten Gamst Pedersen has been identified by Vital QPR as the One to Watch as travel to Blackburn Rovers for an FA Cup clash on Saturday.

Name: Morten Gamst Pedersen

Date of Birth: 08/09/81

Former Clubs: Tromsø IL

Appearances (Goals): 298 (74)

Norwegian international Morten Gamst Pedersen will be hoping to continue a good run of form under new Blackburn manager Steve Kean. Possessing one of the best left foots in the Premiership the Rangers players will have to keep a close eye on the 29 year old in a hope to test their top flight credentials.

Pedersen made his breakthrough at Norwegian Premier League club Tromsø IL as a promising 17-year-old and soon cemented a regular spot in the starting eleven. One of the most consistent performers in the side, he soon attracted interest from elsewhere and former Blackburn manager Graeme Souness swooped to sign the midfielder at the start of the 2004/2005 season for a fee believed to be around a potential £2.5 million.

After a slow start to his Blackburn career, down to untimely managerial changes, Pedersen had to wait his chance before soon becoming a consistent starter in the Blackburn Rovers side. Mark Hughes claimed Pedersen was not ready for the Premier League at the time, however the winger bided his time and got his chance in a game against Cardiff City, before going on to score three goals in the next three games.

Since then Pedersen has made the left wing position his own, and has further developed a knack for scoring fierce free kicks and spectacular goals. The Norwegian has gone on to make over 200 league appearances for the club, scoring over 30 goals and has since signed a four year deal that will keep him at the club until 2014.

With a further 50 appearances for international side Norway, the Rs must continue their impressive league form into the FA Cup in the hope of both stopping Pedersen and his Blackburn side and secure a first FA Cup win in 10 years.




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