NORTH removes MSL and Aizy from their starting line-up!
Two of the most experienced North players has been removed from the roster.
North has announced that Philip "aizy" Aistrup and Mathias "MSL" Lauridsen have been placed on the transfer list, and will no longer have a role in the North roster.
To replace the two players North has announced the return of 18-year-old Kristoffer "Kristou" Aamand. North decided, shortly after signing the young Dane, to send him on a loan spell to the fellow Danish team AGF. With aizy and MSL leaving North, however, Kristou will once again be representing North and his teammates.
As for the second replacement, nothing is yet final, but a step towards finding the fitting player has been taken. Rasmus "kreaz" Johansson will have his chance to steal the fifth and final place in the roster, as he will partake in the upcoming matches and training in order to showcase his capabilities and role in the team.
North describes the decision as a part of their 2nd step in their Talent Development Strategy. This is of course emphasized by the young "Kristou" who is granted a chance to perform at a higher level than what he has previously been tried at. The strategy is based on giving younger players the environment and tools to grow as players. With aizy and MSL being the longest-serving players of the North organization it is, therefore, no surprise that it is them, who will have to step aside to let the younger talents prosper.
With MSL and aizy being removed from the team, changes in roles within the roster will have to take place. North's Head of Esports Operations Graham Pitt gives insight by explaining that: "Nicklas “gade” Gade will once again take on in-game leading duties with the team, with a refreshed outlook upon his own play and the leadership role, having learned a lot during 2020. During the COVID period, Nicklas will call with aid from head coach Jimmy “Jumpy” Berndtsson who is able to be much more active during online games,"
The team will compete together at Dreamhack Masters where their new journey begins.