Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Lucas Bergvall has been commended for his mature handling of his continued absence from Sweden’s national team line-up. Despite being one of Spurs’ most improved players this season under Thomas Frank, the 19-year-old has not featured for his country since November 2024.
Bergvall was left as an unused substitute in both of Sweden’s September fixtures, sparking frustration among supporters who believe his club form warrants inclusion. However, the teenager insists he has no intention of creating controversy over coach Jon Dahl Tomasson’s decisions.
Bergvall: “Sometimes you play, sometimes you don’t”
Speaking to Göteborgs-Posten, Bergvall accepted the manager’s choices with humility:
“There are incredibly good players who perform week in and week out in the top leagues, then it is always up to Jon who plays, but there are incredibly good players. Sometimes you play, sometimes you don’t play.” — Lucas Bergvall, via Göteborgs-Posten
The 19-year-old has started six league matches for Tottenham this season after mainly being used from the bench last term. His progress in North London has been notable, but he stressed that competition for national team spots is normal at the highest level.
Andersson: “Applause for Bergvall”
Former Sweden international Anders Andersson, who earned 27 caps between 1994 and 2005, was impressed by Bergvall’s attitude. Drawing on his own experience of battling Tobias Linderoth, Anders Svensson and Kim Källström for midfield spots at Euro 2004, Andersson said Bergvall’s calmness sets a positive example.
“I have to give Lucas Bergvall an applause because I think he handled it perfectly,” Andersson said. “I think Bergvall deserves all the praise, especially now that he didn’t get to play a single minute. I didn’t see much negativity from him about it.
“It’s good that you don’t try to spread the negative mood yourself, but that you take it internally. It’s sad for the journalists, but it’s very good for the group.”
Analyst Verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William argues Bergvall’s response shows emotional maturity beyond his years:
“Many young players react negatively when overlooked, but Bergvall’s professionalism strengthens both his image and his standing with teammates. He avoids unnecessary headlines, focuses on his game, and that builds trust with both club and country managers.”
Key Insights
- Lucas Bergvall hasn’t played for Sweden since November 2024.
- The Tottenham midfielder has started six league games this season under Thomas Frank.
- He stressed competition for places is normal and showed no frustration publicly.
- Anders Andersson praised him for avoiding negativity, calling it “sad for journalists but good for the group.”
- Bergvall is expected to start against Switzerland on Friday.
What’s Next for Bergvall and Sweden?
Bergvall is tipped to be in the starting XI when Sweden face Switzerland on Friday evening. A strong display could help him convince Jon Dahl Tomasson he deserves a more consistent role heading into the World Cup qualifiers.
At Tottenham, Thomas Frank’s trust in the teenager has paid off, with Bergvall becoming increasingly important in midfield. Continued maturity on and off the pitch could accelerate his rise into one of Sweden’s key figures for the future.
👉 Should Jon Dahl Tomasson hand Lucas Bergvall more minutes now, or is patience the right path for Sweden’s teenage star?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 10 Oct 2025 11:20
Very mature, so young seems to be a good lad.
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