Where is Justin Krueger playing next season? He doesn’t have a club yet.
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The defender (left) can hand out …
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Papa Ralph Krueger is on hand to help him find a job.
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Justin Krueger played in Bern for eight years, celebrated three championship titles, met his wife Eva here and became a father for the second time three months ago. The man who was born in Germany and grew up in Austria and Davos says: “My heart belongs to Bern.” But his future lies somewhere else.
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In autumn, the SCB officials informed him that they would plan without him. “It was hard and painful,” admits Krueger. “I feel fit, I’m ready to do better for a few more years.” But the defender is still looking for a job.
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«Is worse than my situation»
It is clear that the clubs are reluctant due to the corona crisis. “It didn’t get easier,” says Krueger. «But if you look out into the world, there are worse things than my situation. I hope Switzerland will be able to bear the burden and also support sport. »
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When looking for a job, the German-Canadian can count on the support of Papa Ralph. The long-time national coach, who returned to Switzerland after the interruption of the NHL season, is at his side as an agent. «We regularly exchange information about Facetime. Of course, he hasn’t been able to watch my games as often since he started working as a coach in Buffalo, ”says Justin. «But I don’t need to tell him much. He knows what I can do. »
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The father takes over wage negotiations
Both would have discussions with clubs. «If I have a better contact, I do it. Otherwise it helps. So far, it’s been very smooth, »says Justin. “When it comes to wages, I usually leave it to the father.” A return to Germany is not an issue. “I have good conversations with two or three teams from Switzerland.”
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In Bern, Krueger was the man for the rough. For him it is clear: “To be successful, you need different types of players. It needs people like me. I can help a team. » That is a confident statement, but: “A team cannot consist of just Scorers. I see myself as a tough two-way defender who can give a team stability and security and sometimes make it uncomfortable for the opponent. I like to do dirty work. »
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No boredom at home
Krueger hopes to be certain in a few weeks. Since he mostly designs the summer training anyway and uses the services of fitness coach Robert Mager, whom he knows from times with the German Nati, little will change for the time being. And Krueger doesn’t get bored at home either. His daughter, who is almost two years old and has curly hair like dad, wants to be busy. “Your slapshot in hockey is quite good,” says Krueger proudly.