Lyn goalkeeper Tyrel Lacey says that the threat of bankruptcy for the storied Oslo club will do nothing to hinder the squad's focus on the field.
It has recently come to light that Lyn are facing bankruptcy and if the club is unable to raise 17 million Kroner - $3 million - by a September 28th deadline, then the Football Association of Norway (NFF) will be forced to either take over the club or fold the organization all together.
The news came as a shock for the native of Jenks, Oklahoma who just arrived to the club in August after undergoing a successful trial.
"It is a really tough situation," Lacey recently divulged to YA. "To the club's credit, they have been very open with players and the public. We were told last week and obviously it caught us off-guard. But we're hopeful that it can be worked out."
"My understanding is that we have eight million Kroner raised so we are almost halfway there."
In addition to their financial issues, the play of the capital city club has been subpar as Lyn currently sit in last place in the Eliteserien and are destined to be relegated to the 1. Division.
In an effort to pay off some of its debt, Lyn also sold off its best players throughout the year, leaving head coach Gunner Hale with a young and inexperienced squad which, according to Lacey, has been a positive thing for the current players.
"We're focused on playing as a team," Lacey explained. "Nobody is playing for just themselves. We're a group of young guys with heart and we have a team-oriented mindset."
Should the club be unable to meet its financial obligations and be forced to fold, it raises the question of what would happen to the players that are currently on the Lyn roster.
Fortunately for Lacey and his teammates, the NFF is stepping forward and will make other playing opportunities available within Norway which is appreciated by the former Tulsa Hurricane standout.
"The NFF says that our contracts would be voided and they would open up a short transfer window allowing guys to go to other teams in Norway. The NFF has been very open and honest about the situation."
The Sooner State resident is fully aware that if his immediate future is not in Oslo, then finding a club where he can play is paramount to his development as a professional goalkeeper.
"I always have a desire to play. Goalkeepers need experience so I'll be looking to play wherever," he concluded. "I love Norway and the people are very friendly so I hope to be able to continue playing here."
In four league starts for Lyn, Lacey has collected one victory and three defeats. Halle's squad return to action this weekend when they host Tromso. |
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