Fans Bemoan Lagerbäck’s Squad Selection

Hammarby’s fans reckon Lars Lagerbäck got it wrong.

“Max should be in the squad,” they chanted at last night’s 5-2 victory over Gais, which saw the Stockholm side reach the top of the division. “Lagerbäck should be in a mental hospital.”

There are many Swedes who would have liked to see Max von Schlebrügge picked in the national squad. The young Swede has been outstanding in Hammarby’s performances this season.

Ten minutes into the second half Hammarby’s fans rolled out a ten-meter long banner which read: “Max should be in the squad. Lagerbäck should be in a mental hospital.”

Some fans even had “Wake up Lagerbäck” on their t-shirts, with the name “M. von Schlebrügge 13″ on the back. It’s easy to understand why.

Schelbrügge is one of the most consistent center-backs in the Swedish league. With Olof Mellberg struggling to find his form at the woeful Aston Villa, it’s surprising that Lagerbäck didn’t gamble on the 29-year old defender.

Instead of the excitement of Germany, Schelbrügge can expect a quiet summer, keeping fit for the latter part of the Swedish season.

Let’s hope Lagerbäck and Sweden don’t come to rue the exclusion of Schelbrügge. At least Hammarby won’t worry their man is in the shop window. Their title ambitions at home rely on having a strong, good reader of the game in central defence.