Mix Diskerud is facing a critical juncture in his young and burgeoning career.
Diskerud has returned to Stabaek after his loan to Gent expired at the end of July with the top-flight Belgian side electing not to exercise its option to purchase Diskerud's contract outright. The U.S. international midfielder made seven appearances (three starts) with Gent, and in an ideal world he would have used this summer's Olympics as a springboard to something bigger.
Instead, the U.S. Under-23s did not qualify for the London Games, and the 21-year-old Norwegian-American is back with cash-strapped Stabaek, which sits in last place in Norway with just seven points through 17 matches (2-14-1) and is 11 points clear of relegation, for the rest of the 2012 campaign.
It is not as if Diskerud has no options. He had trained briefly with Norwegian club Sogndal last month, and current Norwegian leaders Stromsgodset are reportedly showing interest in Diskerud for after this season, when his contract with Stabaek is up. The one thing that appears certain is that Diskerud's time with Stabaek is reaching its conclusion. Just where his next stop will be is the great unknown.
What do you think about Diskerud's current situation? Were you disappointed that he didn't catch on permanently in Belgium? Where do you think would be a good next step in his progression?
Share your thoughts below.