Sweden task stirs Ibrahimović

Zlatan Ibrahimović is "really up for" Sweden's meeting with Northern Ireland on Wednesday despite a rash of injuries in Lars Lagerbäck's squad.

Determined mood
The FC Internazionale Milano striker is available following a suspension and is eager to help Sweden earn the win needed to reach UEFA EURO 2008™. Having lost 2-1 in Belfast earlier in the campaign, there is also unfinished business to resolve. "I'm really up for this and I believe everyone in the team is too. Last time around I struggled and so did the whole team, but now we're closing in on qualification and I'm sure we'll do what is required on Wednesday evening."

Pressure on
Ibrahimović remains crucial to Sweden's cause despite not having scored for the national side in two years, something he insists is of little concern. "I don't really think about it," the 26-year-old said. "As long as we win, it doesn't matter who scores the goals." However, the pressure on him at the Råsunda Stadium may be a little more intense, with Sweden – top of Group F on goal difference from Spain, and six points above third-placed Northern Ireland – struggling to adjust to a spate of injuries to first-team players.

'On medication'
Niclas Alexandersson has been ruled out with a foot injury, Olof Mellberg is doubtful with back problems and Fredrik Ljungberg took a knock against Liechtenstein and may miss out too. Midfield engine Tobias Linderoth skipped training on Tuesday as he nurses a groin complaint, yet still intends to play. "I'm on medication but I would have to be in real pain to miss a game like this," he said. Linderoth's only natural replacement, Daniel Andersson, is suspended.

Eye-catching Concha
Defender Mikael Nilsson's fitness is another question mark after he sat out Saturday's 3-0 victory in Liechtenstein because of illness, but his absence is less of a worry given how Matias Concha performed in his place. The 26-year-old from VfL Bochum 1848 earned rave reviews and may get another chance to impress against Northern Ireland, who need at least a draw to stay in contention. "It felt good and, of course, I now want to play against Northern Ireland," said Concha.

Coach calm
Lagerbäck is confident his side can finish the job against Nigel Worthington's team. "I think we will be allowed to control the flow of the game, while Northern Ireland will focus on counterattacks," he said. "They haven't got any truly world-class players in their lineup but they're a solid team who know what it's all about. We have to stay focused and convert our chances as well as defend well. If we do that, we will be successful."