World Cup

Sweden boss Janne Anderson coy over Zlatan Ibrahimovic World Cup interest

By Giuseppe Labellarte, Reporter | 15 March 2018

Sweden boss coy over Ibrahimovic interest

Sweden boss Janne Anderson insists that Zlatan Ibrahimovic's interest in going to the 2018 World Cup with the Nordic nation "doesn't change anything" for the coach.

Sweden manager Janne Andersson has played down the chances of Zlatan Ibrahimovic going to the World Cup in the summer.

The Manchester United forward has considered the possibility of ending his international retirement in time for Russia 2018.

Ibrahimovic, who has scored a record 62 goals in 116 Sweden appearances, is quoted by the Daily Mail as saying that "if I want to, I'll be there".

However, Andersson responded to the 36-year-old's interest by telling reporters at a squad announcement press conference: "It doesn't change anything for me.

"It's great that players want to join us. I don't follow what is written and rumoured very much. I respect the decision he has taken. I've not thought more about it.

"To me, the situation is the same. And that goes for Pontus Wernbloom as well. If they change their minds, they are very welcome to come and speak to me."

Sweden reached the 2018 World Cup by overcoming four-time champions Italy in November's playoff.