Isak Hien leaves World Cup
Photo: Tony Gutierrez/AP/TT

Isak Hien leaves World Cup after injury, Graham Potter says it's truly sad

· updated

Sweden's centre-back Isak Hien has been forced to withdraw from the World Cup because of an injury he sustained during the match against Japan. "It's truly sad for Isak and for us," says national team captain Graham Potter.

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Hien will need to "be away from football for a while" due to the injury, according to national team doctor Jonas Werner.

Isak has sustained an injury to the back of his left thigh of such a degree that he will not be able to participate further in the World Cup, he says, according to the Swedish Football Association.

The 27-year-old was forced off injured in the first half. Who will replace Hien, whom Potter has stated as a given in his starting eleven, in the upcoming round-of-32 match against France remains to be seen.

"He is a key player for us and is important to the group on and off the pitch. To have to end the World Cup like this because of an injury is very disappointing and we will support him in the best way possible. It is disappointing for him, but I am sure he will come back stronger," says Graham Potter.

At club level, Hien plays for Italian side Atalanta, where he is reportedly returning.

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AuthorTT News AgencyEnglish edition by Sweden Herald, adapted for our readers
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