On the mend

Swedish keeper Hedman set to return from injury

STOCKHOLM (Reuters) -- Sweden goalkeeper Magnus Hedman, who has been struggling with a hip injury, says he could be back for Coventry City's first division clash with Manchester City this weekend.

"Hopefully, I'll be able to train as usual on Thursday or Friday," he told Swedish daily Aftonbladet on Wednesday.

The 28-year-old, who has won 42 caps, sustained the injury on February 13 in Sweden's 2-2 friendly draw against Greece.

Hedman is one of several key players in the Swedish national team recently hit by injury.

Arsenal midfielder Fredrik Ljungberg has been out since injuring his ankle against Leeds United on January 20, while Celtic striker Henrik Larsson has been battling a thigh problem.

But Hedman was not worried by the injuries possibly affecting Sweden's chances at the World Cup.

"The situation would be worse if we were really close to the World Cup," he said. "The only one I am really concerned about is Patrik Andersson."

Sweden captain Andersson damaged his knee in Barcelona's 3-2 win against Deportivo earlier this month and is out of action for approximately 10 weeks.

Sweden is drawn with England, Argentina and Nigeria in the group phase in the World Cup this summer. It faces Switzerland in a friendly on March 27.

 

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