FRANCE 98 – General Media News Template

Tore Andre Flo has struggled to cement a regular place in the Chelsea side this season, but is still likely to lead the Norwegian attack at France 98.

The lanky striker, who comes close to averaging a goal every second game at international level, is one of around 30 Norwegians plying their trade in England. He joined Chelsea from Brann Bergen at the start of the season but has had to battle for a place against the likes of Mark Hughes, player-coach Gianluca Vialli and Gianfranco Zola.

On occasions Flo can appear clumsy, on others he is dramatically effective as in Chelsea’s European Cup Winners’ Cup quarter-final first leg against the Spaniards of Real Betis. His two early goals gave Chelsea an advantage they never relinquished.

On the international stage, Flo underlined his prowess with two goals in an international win over Brazil last season. Flo’s fans point to his strength on the ball, his ability at shielding it and his undoubted power in the air. Another asset that is rare in modern strikers is that the 24-year-old is equally strong off both feet. His critics point to his inconsistency and tendency to lose focus in a tight contest.

He and his teammates remain realistic about their prospects in France, where they will meet Brazil, Scotland and Morocco in the first round.

“We are all very positive, but I don’t think anyone in Norway expects us to win the World Cup,” he said. “The Norwegian people will be very happy if we qualify for the second round, and I see no reason why we can’t do that.”