Newcastle United star Anthony Elanga is part of a talented group of Swedish players now without a manager.
Indeed, on Tuesday, Jon Dahl Tomasson became the first men’s manager ever sacked by the Swedish Football Federation.
It came after the former Newcastle United striker oversaw a 1-0 defeat to Kosovo, leaving Sweden bottom of Group B in World Cup qualification.
That is a poor return given the squad Sweden have these days. Few countries could field two strikers as strong as Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyokeres, while Elanga forms part of an impressive supporting cast.
There remains an outside chance Sweden could still reach the World Cup next summer but little about them inspires right now.
Still, recently sacked former West Ham manager Graham Potter has seemingly thrown his hat into the ring.
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Graham Potter open to taking Sweden job
Potter is out of work after leaving the Hammers last month following a short spell in charge.
His reputation has taken something of a battering in the Premier League of late following difficult spells at both Chelsea and West Ham.
As such, it seems like a move into international management may appeal. Potter has previously worked in Swedish football, making a name for himself while in charge of Östersund between 2011 and 2018.
Speaking to FotbollSkanalen, he said: “I just heard the news. It’s sad, of course. For Swedish football and JDT.
“But yes. I’m actually in Sweden right now, in my house in Sweden. I’m between jobs and just left the Premier League. I’m open to anything, really, where I feel I can help. The job as the national team captain of the Swedish national team is fantastic.
“I have feelings for Sweden. I love the country, and I love Swedish football. I have a lot to be grateful for towards Swedish football. So yes, it would be a fantastic opportunity for me. Of course.”
Anthony Elanga’s message to Sweden fans after Kosovo humiliation
Elanga was quick to stress that the dream wasn’t over for Sweden even if the odds are stacked against them.
While it would take an unlikely turnaround from here, they could feasibly still reach the World Cup by way of the play-offs.
The Swedish media criticised Elanga but the Newcastle forward is only looking ahead to their next round of fixtures.
On his Instagram story, he posted: “We’ve stumbled, but we’re not done. The story isn’t finished yet! See you in November.”
Sweden travel to Switzerland in November before hosting Slovenia.
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