Swedish Key Striker Faces Risk of Missing Crucial World Cup Qualifier Against Denmark

Swedish national team coach Tony Gustavsson has confirmed that the Chelsea striker faces a significant risk of being sidelined for the match.

“I haven’t completely ruled her out, but I want to be clear with both her and you,” he stated, as reported by Swedish media outlet Fotbollskanalen.

A minor calf injury prevented Rytting Kaneryd from participating in Chelsea’s Champions League quarter-final second leg against Arsenal earlier this month, and her recovery is under close observation.

Rytting Kaneryd has been seen training solo in the lead-up to the fixture. However, Gustavsson indicated that he isn’t counting on her being available for selection, with a final decision pending a meeting with the medical staff this evening.

“Regardless of the information I receive tonight, the chances of her playing tomorrow are exceedingly low. We have other attacking players who have trained continuously for the past week and are ready for match action,” Gustavsson acknowledged, adding that replacing the Chelsea star will present a significant challenge.

“I’ll be honest and say it’s a tough situation. There are numerous challenges and it’s evident that there’s a limit to what this group can endure. We’re incorporating new players, rotating the squad, and using younger talents. Not only in terms of football skills but also leadership, which we have placed a strong emphasis on,” Gustavsson remarked.

Regarding potential replacements, Gustavsson pointed to BK Häcken’s Monica Jusu Bah as a viable option to fill the void left by Rytting Kaneryd:

“Those who have observed training this week will know she’s had a few minutes on the right side. We believe she can effectively play in both positions. She is certainly a candidate for that role as well.”

The showdown between Sweden and Denmark will take place at the Gamla Ullevi Arena in Gothenburg on Tuesday night at 19:00 CET.