Mitchell Weiser played three different positions in just one half for Werder Bremen. In the 2-2 draw against SC Paderborn last Saturday, the 32-year-old came on at halftime for Chuki and operated first as a number 10, then from the 63rd minute as a right winger, and finally in the closing stages as a number 6.

It was the longest outing for Weiser since his return from a 14-month injury absence due to an ACL tear. Coach Daniel Thioune gave him a full half for the first time. The 52-year-old coach said after the match that they need to see where the player has his greatest impact and did not want to commit to a decision.

Thioune sees the experienced player most at home on the wing. He thinks Weiser is at home on the flank, having done that for many years. Perhaps he could bring more energy on the right side, the coach said, but he did not want to commit. He considers the number 6 role less likely, as competition in central midfield is strong with Senne Lynen returning next week and Jens Stage expected back soon. Arthur has also established himself at right-back, limiting Weiser's prospects in that position.

The halftime substitution was not a criticism of Chuki but a response to the 2-0 deficit at the break, according to Thioune. Weiser brought energy to the game, looked for shots and narrowly missed scoring. He was not directly involved in either of Werder's two goals, scored by Niclas Füllkrug in the 59th and 65th minutes, but had a visible influence on the second half.

The debate over Weiser's optimal position comes as Werder sit 8th in the Bundesliga table. With nine points from six games and a record of two wins, three draws and one defeat, the team has built a solid foundation. Their goal difference is even, with twelve scored and twelve conceded. The next task is an away fixture against FSV Mainz 05 this Saturday. Mainz currently sit in fifth place, underlining the challenge. Werder's recent form over the last five competitive matches reads draw, loss, draw, win, draw. The season's top scorer remains Niclas Füllkrug with six goals.

Thioune stressed that Weiser currently has a major influence on the team's play regardless of his specific position. A final decision on his best role may require another conversation between player and coach. For the match in Mainz, the return of further players will expand the manager's tactical options.

This story first appeared at Bild Sport