Sweden head coach Graham Potter has given his strongest indication yet that Viktor Johansson will start in goal for the country's decisive Nations League fixtures against Bosnia and Poland, Expressen reports. Speaking at a media appearance, Potter suggested the goalkeeper who played the most recent match is likely to keep the shirt.
Sweden host Bosnia on Saturday before travelling to Poland the following Tuesday.
Why it matters
The goalkeeper question has been one of the more closely watched selection issues around the Swedish squad. According to Expressen, Kristoffer Nordfeldt helped Sweden qualify for the World Cup and started the first two matches of the tournament, before Jacob Widell Zetterström took over in goal.
At the most recent international gathering, Nordfeldt was left out of the squad entirely and Widell Zetterström was injured, which opened the door for Viktor Johansson. Expressen reports that Johansson's performances in those matches impressed Potter.
With two important Nations League games approaching, Potter's choice between the posts carries weight, and his remarks suggest continuity rather than a return to earlier options.
Potter's hint on the number one shirt
Asked directly who would be his first-choice goalkeeper for the Bosnia and Poland matches, Potter praised Johansson's contribution, according to Expressen.
He said Johansson did a very good job and added that football sometimes settles these matters on its own. The coach also noted that Sweden has a strong group of goalkeepers who push each other, before offering a homespun comparison: he recalled his father telling him that whoever already holds something often has an advantage.
Potter then pointed to the most recent match, saying Johansson wore the shirt on that occasion and that those listening could interpret the remark however they wished. Expressen presents the exchange as the coach effectively revealing his choice ahead of the deciding games.
The Sweden coach acknowledged that the situation presents a selection dilemma, but described it as a good one to have. He noted that Widell Zetterström performed very well at the World Cup before his injury, and that Johansson had an excellent camp last time out.
What to watch
Sweden face Bosnia at home on Saturday and Poland away the following Tuesday. Potter's final team sheets will confirm whether Johansson holds the starting role through both matches.
