22-year-old eyeing up Celtic star’s place, “I may be a little faster”

 

AIK defender Emil Krafth has told the Swedish media he’s eyeing up Mikael Lustig’s place in the national team. The Celtic star has been Sweden’s first choice right back in recent years, but the 22-year-old is now hoping to compete for the spot.

Speaking to Smalanningen, Krafth was asked about replacing Lustig in the Sweden stating eleven after being called up for their upcoming internationals. The youngster said the Celtic defender holds the shirt for the time being, but he hopes he can compete with him.

Krafth believes Lustig has done well for Sweden over the years, but thinks he has the edge with regards to speed. However, the AIK player realises Celtic’s Lustig is a good defender, and he can learn from him.

“I’m competing with Lustig. He has dibs because he has been around a while. If I can’t play in the World Cup Qualifier, I hope to play against Portugal on Tuesday. You know how it is. He’s been involved for many years and has done well.  I may be a little faster, but I want to be more aggressive. He’s very good defensively and in that I have a little to learn from him.”

Lustig signed for Celtic from Rosenberg in 2012, and has gone on to make nearly 100 appearances in the Scottish Premiership. Since arriving at the club the Swede has won the league four times and the Scottish Cup on one occasion. Lustig has over 50 caps for Sweden, and will be expected to start over Krafth in Saturday’s clash with Belarus.