Earlier today, we covered the news from Sweden that Anthony Elanga has been left out of the national squad for the upcoming international break.
The 22-year-old hasn’t been in good consistent form for either club or country and the reality is that his level has cost him his place. At times it’s felt like Elanga believed he should have a bigger role with Sweden than what’s he’s enjoyed, but he’s failed to really justify such a stance.
At the press conference, Sweden manager Jon Dahl Tomasson explained that football can be cruel at times, and that’s the case now for the Nottingham Forest player. Emil Forsberg has been in good form for New York Red Bulls, and that’s ultimately got him the nod over Elanga.
Tomasson then spoke to Aftonbladet and said he hasn’t been able to get hold of Elanga since the player found out he wouldn’t be involved.
Aftonbladet quote him as saying: “I have tried several times to reach him but I haven’t reached him yet. I sent a message but I’m sure that we will talk together.”
The journalist then put it to Tomasson that perhaps Elanga is angry, and he responded: “Of course, players are disappointed when they are not selected. Alexander Isak and Emil Forsberg are back and when two players are back, a player has to go out. You don’t want to make decisions like that as a human being, but as a coach it’s your job and that’s what being a coach is all about. Someone will always be disappointed, but that’s football and part of it.”
When asked if he’s surprised the Nottingham Forest player didn’t answer the telephone or reply, the Sweden manager said: “He can also be very busy, heh? I don’t know.”
Not the smartest move from Anthony Elanga.
