Manchester United defender Lindelof named Sweden captain

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Manchester United defender Victor Lindelof has been named captain of Sweden.

Manager Janne Andersson has decided that Lindelof will take over from Andreas Granqvist.

Sweden made the last 16 of Euro 2020, where they were beaten 2-1 in extra time by Ukraine.

If they had won that match, it would have set up a quarter-final clash with England in Rome.

Lindelof said of his new role: “It is a very great honor but also a great responsibility. When I was growing up, I dreamed, just like all other young football players, of playing for Sweden.

“Every time I put on the blue and yellow shirt, I feel an enormous pride. To now be able to represent the country with the armband on my arm will be very big for me.

“I hope to be able to lead with my game on the field but also contribute with the routine I have. We have several very good young players who have joined the team.

“Then we need a little bit of experience to lead and be professional in all situations. Even though I’m a captain, there are many leaders on this team.”

Interesting time for Lindelof

There is perhaps a perception of Lindelof that he isn’t a defensive leader in the same way Harry Maguire is.

But when he’s with Sweden, he’s one of the top players and that seems to bring something else out of him. Rio Ferdinand touched on that during the Euros.

That said, the honour has come along at a time when he could find himself out of United’s first-choice eleven.

Raphael Varane’s impending arrival means everyone expects him to partner Maguire next season.

Andersson has surely taken the risk that his captain may no longer be playing every week into consideration when making his decision.

For Lindelof, the signing of Varane must have been a bit of a blow, but this should give him a boost.

And Varane’s late arrival means the Swede will likely get a chance to remind Ole Gunnar Solskjaer of his quality against Leeds on Saturday too.

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