Aston Villa's Victor Lindelof has hit back at suggestions he could play in a position other than his preferred centre-back role for Sweden at the World Cup, insisting he deserves more respect.
Lindelof's Versatile Season at Villa
Villa manager Unai Emery deployed Lindelof in multiple roles last season, including midfield and right-back, in addition to his primary centre-back position, where he featured on both sides of the defensive line. Lindelof proved to be one of Villa's standout signings, excelling particularly in a holding midfield role during the closing stages of the campaign. He first impressed in a 4–0 Europa League semi-final second-leg victory over Nottingham Forest, followed by a stellar performance in the 4–2 win against Liverpool that secured Champions League qualification. He then delivered another strong midfield display in the 3–0 Europa League final triumph over Freiburg.
National Team Frustration
Despite his flexibility at club level, Lindelof feels disrespected that his preferred centre-back role is still being questioned ahead of the World Cup, where Graham Potter's Sweden will face Tunisia, the Netherlands, and Japan in Group F.
“I’m here as a centre-back,” Lindelof stated. “We in Sweden have enough good midfielders. Potter and I have not discussed it.”
When asked about the possibility of playing at right-back, Lindelof was firm: “I deserve some respect. I think what I’ve done in my career. Not a joke. But I think what I’ve done in my career, and the role I have… a little respect for that. But absolutely: if Graham comes and says I’m going to play right-back, I would have told him… ‘that’s not going to happen’.”
The 31-year-old defender, who has earned over 70 caps for Sweden, is determined to cement his place in the heart of defence for his country, despite his proven adaptability at club level.
