Lindelof Crowned Sweden

By Max Wise

Victor Lindelof has been named Sweden’s Player of the Year for 2018 at an awards ceremony in Stockholm.

The ‘Guldbollen’ trophy was handed over to the 24-year-old Manchester United centre-back as he followed in the footsteps of another former United striker, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who won the award for ten consecutive years.

The award comes as a reward for Lindelof following his strong performances for his country at this summer’s FIFA World Cup.

Lindelof showed good form at the rear as the Blue-Yellows reached the quarterfinals of the Mundial before eventually losing to England.

The former Benfica defender initially struggled at Old Trafford, following a £30m move last summer, but has been impressive and dominant for the Red Devils in the last couple of games.

“It means very much for me to receive this prize,” he said after receiving the prize.

“I am extremely proud and grateful," he added. "I want to thank all my team-mates in my club and national team, but also my family, who have always been there for me in wet and dry. You really mean everything to me.'

"I would also like to thank my beautiful wife, who is always there, helping and supporting me."

Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who won the award from 2006 to 2016 was also in attendance.