you can't keep a good man down ....

A campaign began in the Swedish media to replace Anders Svensson in the national side .....in 2006.

....then 30 years of age, they wanted to make room for the up-and-coming Kim Källström - the only problem being that (with rare exception) the aformentioned KK never seemed to produce his brilliant club form in international matches: Anders continued to play his midfield role (sometimes as sub.) whilst newer talents came ....and went. Källström never seemed to click, and Anders continued to play.

Last week, Sweden's manager Eric Hamren decided to leave Anders out of the team - (especially as there are now 3 or 4 other "budding talents " on the up).

Anders was naturally disappointed, but said that if he was to be 4-5th choice... then he might as well pack it in now..having already passed 130 caps ..he is in the reach of retired goalie Thomas Ravelli's record of 143 games.

Now 36 years old Anders sat on the bench (last night) read Tuesday..whilst the Swedes struggled to beat Kazakstan - who are even lower in FIFA placings than Wales - and even a 90th minute goal (FT score 2-0)..... didn't stop the Swedish fans booing their team off the pitch after the worse 90 minutes of non-football seen here in many years.

With the 2014 World cup in sight, it looks like Anders may still be around....... if the Swedes can't find a suitable replacement for him by then.