I called Anthony Elanga seven times and sent messages… I can’t give a good answer’

 

Nottingham Forest winger Anthony Elanga has been told “the ball is in his court” to win back a place in the Sweden squad.

The 22-year-old was not called up by his country during the November international break last year. At the time, manager Jon Dahl Tomasson said he was keen to talk to the Reds ace but had been unable to get hold of him.

Now a few months further down the line, Tomasson has claimed Elanga has not responded to any of his messages or calls. However, he continues to track the former Manchester United man’s performances as he has been in fine form for Forest recently.

I’m very happy to see that he’s doing well,” Tomasson told Swedish newspaper Expressen in a translated interview. “He’s one of the players we’re following.

Now a few months further down the line, Tomasson has claimed Elanga has not responded to any of his messages or calls. However, he continues to track the former Manchester United man’s performances as he has been in fine form for Forest recently.

Elanga has represented the national team 19 times so far in his career. Sweden return to action next month, when they have fixtures against Luxembourg and Northern Ireland in the upcoming international break.

Quizzed on whether it appeared Elanga still wants to play for his country, Tomasson said: “I think you should ask him.” On whether there had been any off-field issues, he added: “What happens in the squad, stays in the squad.”

 

Elanga has played a key role for Nuno Espirito Santo’s side this term. He has scored three goals and registered eight assists in 27 Premier League appearances this season however he is keen to play.