After leading Sweden to victory over Poland in the UEFA Nations League, coach Graham Potter discussed striker Viktor Gyökeres' playing time in an interview, joking that if he suggested Gyökeres needed rest, the striker might "twist his head off."

Recently, Gyökeres has featured prominently in Sweden's matches against Romania and Poland, scoring in both games. Despite the congested fixture schedule, Potter said he had not considered substituting Gyökeres early.

"If I tell Viktor he needs a rest, he'll probably twist my head off," Potter said.

Potter explained that Gyökeres not only provides a goal threat but also contests aerial balls in the attacking third, serving as a focal point for Sweden to build play around. The team therefore needed him on the pitch. Potter also noted that Gyökeres is in good physical condition and that modern players are accustomed to playing through busy schedules.

With Sweden's next Nations League match an away trip to Bosnia and Herzegovina, the question remains whether the quick turnaround will affect Gyökeres' availability for the starting XI.

"He has an extra day to recover. These players are used to intense schedules. If I tell Viktor he needs a rest, I think he'll probably twist my head off," Potter told Viaplay with a laugh.

Potter confirmed he had not considered early substitution for Gyökeres against Poland.

"No. It was a tough game, and we needed to win. He was also clearing with headers in defense. We were focused on winning, and now our goal is to get everyone back to full fitness. He was ready to play. If I had taken him off earlier, he might have been angry with me."

When asked if he would dare to bench Gyökeres for the remaining matches, Potter smiled and said he needed to be "careful with that question."

Gyökeres responded to the topic with humor, saying he wouldn't actually twist Potter's head off because "we still need his head," but he certainly wants to keep playing.

Gyökeres acknowledged the demanding schedule but emphasized his happiness at playing for the national team. He believes he is capable of continuing to start in the upcoming matches.

Potter praised Gyökeres' performance, highlighting his activity in the second half, particularly in one-on-one duels, winning second balls, and exploiting space in behind the defense. With a striker of Gyökeres' quality, Potter noted, Sweden has a clearer attacking outlet when building from midfield and defense, while opposition defenders must contend with his direct physical threat.

Sweden has now won two consecutive matches in the Nations League group stage and will travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina next.

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