Sweden names Genesis Antwi in senior squad for first time
The Chelsea defender, on loan at Strasbourg, joins Fiorentina forward Alieu Njie as the squad’s two uncapped players.
Genesis Antwi, 19, has earned his first call-up to Sweden’s senior team, with manager Graham Potter picking the Chelsea defender for November’s UEFA Nations League fixtures. Sweden will face Bosnia and Herzegovina at home before an away match against Poland.
An injury to Bologna right-back Emil Holm gave Potter an opening to consider Antwi. At the squad announcement, Potter pointed to the defender’s speed and Under-21 displays, according to Fotbollskanalen. He said contacts at Chelsea had spoken positively about Antwi and described fellow selection Felix Beijmo as the more experienced option.
Antwi’s season-long Strasbourg loan began in August. He has started eight out of nine league games for the French club, playing first on the left of the defense and later on the right under Hugo Oliveira. His appearances have included matches against Monaco and Paris Saint-Germain.
The defender has five Sweden Under-21 appearances but no senior caps. Fiorentina’s Alieu Njie is also awaiting his senior debut after being selected by Potter.
Sweden tops its Nations League group ahead of the November 14 home game against Bosnia and Herzegovina. Victory in that match would mean promotion to League A. The trip to Poland follows on November 17.
