Isakssson in injury scare

Sweden coach Lars “Lasse” Lagerbäck’s blood pressure probably went up today as first choice ‘keeper Andreas Isaksson picked up an injury during training.

The Rennes-based keeper fell awkwardly after colliding with liability defender Olof Mellberg whilst coming for a high-ball. The incident brought an end to training for Isaksson hobble and he took no further part in the training session.

Initial reports suggest no real damage had been inflicted.

“He landed on his backside after he tried to catch the ball,’’ Lagerbäck said. “Anders Valentin (a member of Sweden’s medical staff) told me it was nothing serious after the first medical examination. In the worst case, it could be some kind of small bleeding, but most probably he’ll be able to practice again tomorrow.’’

If Isaksson is injured, Rami Shaban is a quality replacement. He proved at Arsenal that he cope with top flight football and has been getting rave reviews in Norway since he moved there after recovering from a serious leg injury.