Alexander Isak admits that the players in the national football team feel pressure before the match.
It's clear that there is pressure on us and high expectations. It's common in football and we have the same ambitions as the Swedish people, says the attacking star at the team's press conference.
Hopefully, we can live up to the expectations.
”Did not follow the game idea”
Sweden needs to take points and preferably win over Switzerland to have a chance to win the group and secure a direct spot to the World Championship. Isak hopes that the audience at Strawberry arena believes it is possible to achieve the group victory.
I hope those in place believe in it. And bring positive energy that will be needed to get that extra man. It's important that we are all on the same track and help Sweden win tomorrow.
Isak defends the national team coach Jon Dahl Tomasson's criticized playing style.
There's a lot of talk about the game idea, but within the team, it's clear. In the last match (0-2 against Kosovo), we did not follow the game idea, it was simply a poor performance by us.
Does not want to be called a savior
During the previous national team gathering, Isak had not trained football collectively all summer, due to the prolonged club transfer from Newcastle to Liverpool.
Now it's been a month and I've got a lot more playing time. Things have calmed down. I'm in a much better position now than at the last gathering, Isak means.
I've grown in the group and with that comes a responsibility. But savior, I don't know if I call myself that.
What kind of leader are you?
There are different types of leaders. Those who talk a lot and are good at communication – and those who lead on the pitch. I try to be the latter, take responsibility in my way of playing. But of course, I also try to be a leader off the pitch to be there for all players.
Ready for 90 minutes
Isak feels that he is physically ready for 90 minutes against Switzerland, but in terms of football, he has a bit to go.
Physically, I feel good. I haven't had any problems. In terms of form, it's hard to say. It's clear that there is a higher level in me and I'm working hard to reach it.
Against Switzerland, you will face duels with defender Manuel Akanji, once a club teammate in Dortmund.
A very skilled defender. I've played with him and faced him several times when he played in Manchester City. It will be a fun challenge. He is big, strong, and fast. I think we have a clear picture of how we can hurt him and Switzerland, says Isak.
