Sweden men’s national football team has called up Hammarby defender Victor Eriksson to the squad in Bukarest ahead of Monday’s match against Romania, following a defensive injury crisis that has seen 13 players leave the squad or be unavailable due to injuries and illnesses, as reported.
Carl Starfelt Departs Squad After Injury in Bosnia
Celta Vigo central defender Carl Starfelt suffered a hamstring injury early in the first half of Friday’s away match against Bosnia and Herzegovina, which ended in a 1–1 draw. Starfelt left the team to begin rehabilitation with his club, prompting head coach Graham Potter to make another emergency squad adjustment.
During Friday’s match, Eric Smith replaced Starfelt in central defense alongside Victor Nilsson Lindelöf. Eriksson, who sat on the bench during the playoff final against Poland in March and has one prior cap from a January tour against Finland in 2023, now joins Smith and Lindelöf as the only natural center-backs currently available to Potter.
Thirteen Players Unavailable Due to Injuries and Illness
The Swedish squad faces an unusually severe wave of absences during the current international window. Ten players have departed the team during the ongoing gathering: Emil Holm, Alexander Isak, Hjalmar Ekdal, Benjamin Nygren, Yasin Ayari, Gustaf Lagerbielke, John Mellberg, Elliot Stroud, Patrik Wålemark, and Carl Starfelt.
In addition, Gustaf Nilsson, Mattias Svanberg, and Taha Ali withdrew before the squad assembled. Anthony Elanga, Jacob Widell Zetterström, Dejan Kulusevski, and Isak Hien were ruled out from selection prior to the gathering due to pre-existing injuries.
Graham Potter Addresses Squad Strain and Infection Risks
Despite the depleted roster and a late equalizer conceded against Bosnia and Herzegovina, Potter expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance on the pitch.
Potter described the cascade of absences using the English phrase when it rains it pours,
according to Fotbollskanalen. He also acknowledged ongoing concerns regarding the potential spread of illness within the camp as the team prepares to travel. It is of course a possibility.
Travel Plans and Group Standings Ahead of Romania Match
The Swedish delegation planned to fly from Sarajevo to Bukarest on Saturday afternoon. On Monday evening at 20.45, Sweden faces group bottom-dwellers Romania in the fourth and final fixture of the current Nations League window.
Romania enter the match following a 0–6 defeat against Poland on Friday, leaving them without a point in the group stage. Sweden leads the group with seven points, having defeated Romania 2–1 on home turf the previous week.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Swedish Squad Changes
Why was Victor Eriksson called up to the national team?
Victor Eriksson was added to the squad in Bukarest after central defender Carl Starfelt suffered a hamstring injury during Friday’s match against Bosnia and Herzegovina and returned to his club for rehabilitation.
How many players have missed the current international gathering for Sweden?
A total of 13 players are unavailable, including ten who departed during the gathering and three who withdrew before the squad assembled, alongside several others who were unselectable due to prior injuries.
When and where is Sweden’s next match scheduled?
Sweden plays away against Romania on Monday evening at 20.45 in Bukarest, marking the final fixture of the current Nations League window.
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