Seb Larsson reckons Sweden hold an historic edge

Seb Larsson is certain Sweden’s win over Ireland in the last qualifying campaign gives them a psychological edge for Monday’s Euro Group E opener.

Giovanni Trapattoni’s last home game as Ireland boss came against the Swedes in October 2013, with the 2-1 defeat all but ending his World Cup ambitions just days before his sacking.

Different faces will be in the teams for the upcoming clash but many stalwarts remain, including Larsson and captain Zlatan Ibrahimovic, along with Sunderland teammate John O’Shea.

Sweden took four points off the Irish during that campaign and, approaching a game with little to separate the nations in the quality stakes, history could be a factor.

“We did okay against Ireland in those previous encounters – drawing and beating them – so we’ll take the positives from that into this game,” explained the wideman, who turned 30 yesterday.

“John O’Shea and I have been talking back at Sunderland about our game since the draw back in December and will probably be in touch as well this week.

Like O’Shea, Larsson’s contribution to Sunderland’s latest great escape from relegation was sparse as he spent most of Sam Allardyce’s reign on the bench.

But Swedish boss Erik Hamrén has kept faith with the experienced midfielder, starting him in both their friendlies against Slovenia and Wales.

“I feel fresh and ready for the tournament,” he said. “I started the two friendlies and didn’t have a problem in getting through either of them. I’m in good shape and so is the squad overall.”

Larsson agrees Monday’s opener could be an open affair as three points may be sufficient to clinch progress through the group.

“The increase in qualifiers from the group does make it interesting but everyone knows how important it is to win our first game,” he reasoned.

“Ireland will be thinking the same.”