Newcastle United winger Anthony Elanga suffered a heavy defeat on Saturday evening as Sweden lost 4-1 to Switzerland.
The final international break of 2025 has seen Newcastle United players feature for their countries.
Nick Woltemade scored twice for Germany against Luxembourg on Friday, but Anthony Elanga suffered defeat.
New Sweden manager Graham Potter lost 4-1 against Switzerland, leaving Elanga’s side bottom of their World Cup qualifying group with just one point from five games.
Newcastle United’s Anthony Elanga on new Sweden role
Elanga joined Newcastle over the summer, completing a £55million move from Nottingham Forest.
The results have been a little disappointing so far, though Elanga has praised Magpies boss Eddie Howe as the winger attempts to find form.
Elanga lined up as a left winger for Sweden against Switzerland, a role he hasn’t really played for Newcastle.
Elanga caught the eye, playing a key role in Benjamin Nygren’s goal to make it 1-1 in the first half.
Speaking to Fotbollskanalen after the final whistle, Elanga admitted that he felt ‘really good’ on the left flank.
Elanga noted that he hasn’t started many games of late for Newcastle, but he appreciated the ‘freedom’ given to him under new boss Potter.
“I felt really good,” said Elanga.
“It was my first start in a long time in any competition. I’m happy to start for the national team, it’s a great honour, and Graham gives me the freedom to be a threat. I want the ball all the time, and another day we’re leading 3-1 in the first half,” he added.
Eddie Howe must consider using Anthony Elanga more on the left wing
Elanga was signed to become Newcastle’s new right-winger over the summer, but he has struggled to recapture his Forest form.
Jacob Murphy is now back in the Newcastle side, meaning Elanga is sitting on the bench.
Elanga hasn’t really been considered on the left flank, though, despite Anthony Gordon’s recent injury.
Harvey Barnes scored against Brentford last weekend, but Elanga should also be considered on the left flank after his display for Sweden.
Elanga may still be third-choice on the left behind Gordon and Barnes, but he has shown the ability to make an impact on that side.
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