Vancouver, Jube 27 (IANS) Sweden have suffered a major blow ahead of their FIFA World Cup knockout clash against France after defender Isak Hien was ruled out of the remainder of the tournament with a hamstring injury.

The 27-year-old was hurt in Sweden’s 1-1 draw with Japan on Thursday, a score which saw Graham Potter’s side progress to the round of 32 as one of the eight best third-placed teams.

The Swedish Football Association (SvFF) confirmed the blow on Saturday and said Hien would play no further part in the World Cup and would return to his club to begin rehabilitation.

“Isak has sustained an injury in his left hamstring to such an extent that he will not be able to participate further in the World Cup,” national team doctor Jonas Werner said in a statement.

“He will return to his club, and the injury means that he will be away from football for some time.”

Sweden now head into their knockout encounter against France without one of their key defenders, forcing Potter to reshuffle his backline for the crucial fixture.

The Sweden coach expressed his disappointment for Hien and pledged the team’s full support during the defender’s recovery.

“Having to end the World Cup in this way with an injury is very sad and we will support him in the best way possible,” Potter said.

“It’s sad for him, but I’m sure he’ll come back stronger.”

Hien picked up the injury after stretching to block a cross from Yukinari Sugawara inside the penalty box and was taken off the field. He was replaced by 20-year-old Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Lucas Bergvall and captain Victor Lindelof moved back to central defence to take Hien’s place. There was a lack of attacking quality in the opening period of the match itself, as Sweden and Japan registered only three shots on target between them in a goalless first half.

–IANS

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