Leeds United defender Pontus Jansson has told the Swedish media he’d like to be named the next Sweden captain.
Current Sweden captain Andreas Granqvist yesterday suggested he could now retire from international football, following his country’s 2-0 defeat to England.
Speaking to Sportbladet, the Leeds United defender was asked about replacing Granqvist. “I’ve always said the day he ends, I hope to take over. I have shown it when he hasn’t participated or any other defender has not played.
“The times I’ve been the captain, I’ve done it in a good way. I’ve had a good example. We’ll see how they’re thinking.
“Should it be, I’m ready. It would have been an honour. I have learned a lot about the leadership of Andreas. Mackan (Rosenberg) is another model. If that were the case, it would be great.”
If Granqvist is to put an end to his international career this could also mean Jansson gets more games for Janne Andersson’s team. Since Andersson was installed after Euro 2016 the Leeds United player has been a regular in his squads but has failed to cement a place in the starting line up.
Jansson did play a part in Sweden getting to Russia and was trusted backup to either Granqvist or Victor Lindelof, as he also showed at the World Cup when the Manchester United man was ruled out with sickness.
It’s likely Jansson will partner Lindelof if Granqvist retires but will have competition from Bologna defender Filip Helander.
ND
