Evergreen Rehn wins plaudits

By Chipp Reid

Djurgårdens IF's journey to their first Allsvenskan title in 36 years was achieved mostly with the help of eight regular starters under the age of 25.

Success in the 1990s
In among the youngsters, however, was a highly-accomplished player who won championships with IFK Göteborg in the 1990s and also played for Everton FC in England and Sweden at the 1994 FIFA World Cup. His name? Stefan Rehn.

Wily veteran
Rehn was a stabilising influence on a youthful Djurgården squad throughout the season - the 36-year-old midfield playmaker being both elder statesman and, arguably, star man. Yet a title triumph had looked a long way off when Rehn returned to Sweden two years ago to sign for a Djurgården side just promoted from the Swedish first division. He quickly made an impression on the coaches and players, though, and has maintained a high level of consistency since.

'Big-time player'
"Stefan is a big-time player for us," said Djurgården coach Sören Åkeby. "He understands what it means to be a professional and what it means to be a star. Whether it is in training or in a game, he is an inspiration to our players." Rehn rewarded Djurgården's faith in the penultimate game of the season, as he scored one goal and created another in the 2-1 win against GIF Sundsvall that took the club to the brink of the championship.

On and off-field presence 
"That was a great goal for us and a great goal for Stefan," Djurgården captain Magnus Karlsson said after the game. "I think it is just great Stefan had the kind of night he did. No one deserves it more." The title was secured a week later with a 2-0 victory over IF Elfsborg which left Rehn delighted. "We have been the best team over the whole season and have won the championship deservedly," said the man the Djurgården dressing room has been unanimous in praising.

Important quality 
According to 20-year-old midfield player Kim Källström, the most important quality Rehn has brought to the set-up is composure - helping the younger players keep their heads. "No matter what the situation, he is calm," Källström said. "It is good for players my age to see that. When we want to get angry or maybe do something we shouldn't, Stefan is there to keep us calm and lead us."

'Heart' of the team 
Coach Åkeby is equally complimentary. "He is our heart," he said. "He is the player who gives us our spirit. You can really see it in training. He doesn't let anyone get lazy or not work hard. He is always there, leading drills and pushing everyone to work harder. He is a true professional, and we are very glad to have him."