Isaksson set for comeback

Goalkeeper Andreas Isaksson is set to return to the Sweden line-up for their crucial Group B game with Paraguay on Thursday.

The Rennes custodian, his country’s regular number one, missed the opening game against Trinidad & Tobago with concussion after he was hit in the face by a powerful shot by Kim Kallstrom in training.

Rami Shaaban deputised on Saturday, keeping a clean sheet in a goalless draw, but Isaksson is ready to make his bow in the 2006 tournament.

“I am feeling good again,” the 24-year-old told Swedish newspaper Expressen.

“The headaches and tiredness I felt have now gone.”

Of Kallstrom’s shot in training, Isaksson added: “I do not remember anything from five minutes before the incident to 10 minutes after.

“I was not worried, but it was uncomfortable not being able to remember.”

Sweden coach Lars Lagerback refused to reveal who would be between the posts for the Paraguay game but hinted Isaksson would get the nod.

“He (Isaksson) has been our first-choice keeper during qualification and performed really well,” he said.

Isaksson added: “I never feel safe being the first choice. I always aim to play but it is up to the management to decide.”