Erik ten Hag details Lindelof's tiring ordeal after Brussels terrorist attack

20 October 2023 , 11:45

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Erik ten Hag has spoken out about Victor Lindelof (Image: Getty Images)

Erik ten Hag says Victor Lindelof is ready to play for Manchester United – after being caught up in a terrorist atrocity in Brussels.

Two Sweden fans were shot dead and another injured by a gunman on Tuesday, ahead of a Euro 2024 qualifier with Belgium. The game was abandoned with the score at 1-1, with Sweden skipper Lindelof involved in the discussions that led to both nations agreeing not to carry on playing.

Players, staff and fans were kept inside the stadium in Brussels until around 4am to ensure their safety, with UEFA having confirmed the game will not be replayed.

Ten Hag said although Lindelof arrived back in Manchester exhausted, emotionally and physically, the defender is ready to play at Sheffield United in the Premier League tomorrow night.

“It's a terrible situation and I'm sad for the victims and the relatives, the family and friends of the victims there in Brussels,” said Ten Hag. It's a crazy world. Of course, Victor had a problem, it was a bad experience. With the Sweden national team, he is the captain, he had to stay in front and give statements, but he dealt with it.

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“He's exhausted after it. He didn't sleep overnight, but he returned and yesterday he was back in training. He dealt with the situation. Our thoughts are with Victor, the victims' relatives and the victims. Victor has energy and is ready to play this game.”

With Lisandro Martinez sidelined after surgery, Lindelof is in line to partner Raphael Varane in central defence tomorrow, although Harry Maguire may get the nod ahead of him at Bramall Lane.

David McDonnell