Victor Lindelof is seemingly at risk of being demoted as Sweden’s captain.
The Manchester United centre-half has seen his game time limited at club level this term due to the ever-fluctuating backline. Erik ten Hag is clear in his preference of Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez, though the latter’s injury setbacks have led to frequent changes between the likes of Lindelof, Harry Maguire, Jonny Evans and even young prospect Willy Kambwala.
Alas, Lindelof has returned to the starting 11 in recent matches, initially due to Luke Shaw’s latest long-term layoff and against Nottingham Forest, he filled Maguire’s void centrally.
His reduced role at Old Trafford may be playing some part in new Sweden boss, who was appointed today, Jon Dahl Tomasson’s thinking, along with the fact that the national team failed to qualify for Euro 2024, so a refresh could be on the cards when they look to bounce back from the humiliation.
Sweden manager drops Lindelof captaincy hint
Tomasson recently explained (as per Aftonbladet, relayed by Sport Witness): “All the things like [the] captain and how we are going to play, I will be very concrete about when we get a little further along.
“I first have to meet the players and after that, I will be very concrete in my statements about what I think about the situation. First of all, [they need] to show leadership, that is the most important thing. The second is, and it applies to everyone, that you play with honour and are proud to play for the national team.
“I have heard from many in the organization that the Swedish players really love playing for Sweden. It’s very good, you need to have it and show it on the pitch.”
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