Sweden confirm Wilhelmsson absence
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Article summary
Sweden have said Christian Wilhelmsson is unlikely to play again at EURO after tearing a hamstring against Greece – "a big blow" according to Lars Lagerbäck.
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'It's a blow'
The 28-year-old pulled up 78 minutes into the Group D fixture in Salzburg and was immediately strapped up and taken for tests. National team doctor Lars Valentin said of Wilhelmsson: "He's got a torn hamstring and probably won't be able to play again in the tournament." Coach Lars Lagerbäck added: "Obviously it's a blow to lose him. He was in the starting eleven and is a very good player, but others have been keeping in shape."
Likely replacements
The RC Deportivo La Coruña midfielder has reportedly said he expects to be out for around six weeks, creating a void on the right wing for Sweden. Lagerbäck has refused to be drawn on who will replace Wilhelmsson against Spain on Saturday, although the likes of Sebastian Larsson or Johan Elmander could be candidates for the game in Innsbruck. Spain defeated Russia 4-1 in their opening fixture.
