The problems with getting the grass to thrive have been a recurring issue since the arena was put into use in 2012. New lawns have constantly been laid, only to become worn out after a shorter period of time. In consultation with AIK, the Football Association is testing a hybrid grass (a blend of natural and artificial grass) for a period of time. After an evaluation of the surface, a permanent decision will be made.
The national football team trained on the hybrid grass for the first time on Monday.
"Better than before"
Very good. Much better than before. It's fun, says Yasin Ayari.
Victor Nilsson Lindelöf also felt comfortable.
It's been a bit up and down over the years. It felt good today and hopefully it will hold. It's important to have a good surface to be able to play fast football, he says.
Avoiding uneven bounces?
Goalkeeper Viktor Johansson is also grateful to be able to play a national team match – Northern Ireland is the opponent on Tuesday evening – without worrying too much about uneven bounces.
If it's even everywhere, you know roughly how the ball will bounce.
AIK will play their first two home matches in the top division on the hybrid grass. On April 4, the women's national team will get to test the surface in the Nations League match against Italy.
