Rangers defender Filip Helander was on the bench for Sweden as they defeated the Czech Republic 1-0 after extra time in a tense World Cup playoff semi-final tie in Sweden.
Helander did come off the bench during the extra 30 minutes, coming on for Alexander Isak, who set up Robin Quaison’s winner with just ten minutes to go in the tie.
the defender has only recently come back from a long spell out of the Ibrox side due to injury and it was refreshing to see him being called up by the Swedes for the crucial match.
Filip Helander on the bench for Sweden as they defeat the Czech Republic to set up a World Cup playoff final tie against Poland
Helander made his Sweden debut in March 2017 and has gone on to play 19 times for the national team whilst also making the squads for the 2018 World Cup and the delayed Euro 2020 tournament.
The 28-year-old didn’t play at the World Cup and only played 19 minutes in the last 16 tie against Ukraine at Euro 2020 so he will be desperate to make amends if Sweden qualifies for the World Cup.
Having signed for Rangers in the summer of 2019, he has gone from strength to strength, playing a major role as the Ibrox side won the league title at a canter last season.
His injury at the start of this campaign hindered the side as we conceded more goals and looked shaky defensively.
If he stays fit for the remainder of the season, he could well play a big part at the heart of defence alongside Connor Goldson as we chase glory on three fronts.
Meanwhile, a Rangers icon has insisted that defeat to Celtic in next weeks Old Firm clash is unthinkable.
