Rune Bratseth was an elegant Norwegian sweeper who became a defensive cornerstone of Werder Bremen during a highly successful spell in German football. Composed and intelligent, he read the game superbly and brought the ball out of defence with assurance.
He helped Werder to league and cup honours and a European trophy, and captained Norway during a notable period for the national side. Understated but hugely reliable, he was regarded as one of the best defenders in the Bundesliga of his era.