Portsmouth midfielder’s clear-the-air talks as controversial decision put to bed

Jürgen Henn admitted clear-the-air talks took place with Rocco Shein before the Pompey player was handed a recall to the Estonia national team this month.

The team boss also revealed senior squad member Karol Mets also spoke to the midfielder after he controversially opted against linking up with his international team-mates for their four Nations League fixtures in October.

Rocco’s decision caused plenty of controversy back in his homeland, with Henn also expressing disappointment with his choice not to add to his 25-caps for his country.

In a statement released at the time by the £2m Blues ace, he admitted he felt his body needed a rest after a hectic workload that also included his summer move from Fredrikstad, a rest that would also allow him to focus on establishing himself in John Mousinho’s plans.

Estonia media this week revealed that Shein was also dealing with minor hip and knee problems last month, which contributed to his decision.

Shein is back in the fold now, though, for their upcoming games against Luxembourg and Bulgaria.

However, his involvement comes after efforts to smooth things over were made behind the scenes.

On his decision to recall Shein, Henn said: ‘We spoke about three weeks ago. I think we had a very professional conversation where we explained our positions to each other.

‘We clarified how to move forward. It was very positive, and I think this matter is behind us.

‘Rocco is still an important player for us, and I cannot make decisions based on my personal feelings, but rather on what is best for the Estonian national team.’

‘I also spoke with them (the team captains) between the two windows about how they felt.

‘I know Karol (Mets) spoke with Rocco. He made it clear what representing the national team means from Karol's own perspective.

‘It is good when it comes from within the players, and it is nothing personal.’

Estonia travel to Luxembourg on Friday before hosting Bulgaria in Tallinn on Monday.

The games will hopefully give Shein the opportunity to get some much-needed minutes under his belt.

Since deciding not to link up with Henn & Co last month, the midfielder has featured just twice for the Blues - a 53 minute runout against Wolves and the last 15 minutes of Pompey’s 2-1 defeat against Stoke on Saturday.

Speaking about his current situation at Fratton Park, Shein said: ‘The coaches really believe in me and keep saying that my time will come.

‘It basically depends on one injury, one bad game and the coach decides to throw me in the water. Then I have to swim out and grab it.’

For your next Pompey read: ‘Heading to the top’: Portsmouth sensation shines again on world stage amid Sheffield United transfer talk