There appears to be no major injury concern surrounding Benjamin Nygren despite the Celtic midfielder being placed on an individual training programme while away with Sweden.
The 24-year-old was forced off in the 64th minute of Sweden’s 2-2 draw with Greece after picking up a knock, immediately raising concerns given his importance to both club and country.
Nygren was subsequently among four players training away from the main group during Sweden’s latest session.
However, assistant coach Sebastian Larsson was quick to dismiss fears over the quartet’s condition.
“There is nothing to worry about, absolutely not,” Larsson said to Aftonbladet.
Nygren enjoyed a great first season in Glasgow after arriving in a £1.7 million deal, scoring 21 goals and establishing himself as one of the club’s most important attacking players.
His contribution was recognised at the end of the campaign when he was named Celtic’s Player of the Year after playing a key role in Martin O’Neill’s double-winning side.
Yet even before his first season has properly ended, speculation over his future is already beginning to grow.
A strong World Cup could elevate that interest significantly.
Reports have linked both Tottenham Hotspur and Valencia with the Swedish international, and Nygren did little to shut down the rumours when questioned directly by Swedish media.
Asked about the possibility of a move this summer, he responded:
“We’ll see what happens.”
It is hardly a transfer request, but it is also not the sort of answer that completely closes the door.
That uncertainty is another reason why keeping Nygren fit throughout the World Cup could be crucial.
If he performs well on football’s biggest stage, his value will only rise further.
And in a summer where Celtic are already expected to lose several key players, the last thing Martin O’Neill will want is another major departure from the heart of his attacking unit.
