Celtic star hits back at 'stupid comments' on international duty as he rediscovers goalscoring touch

Celtic midfielder Benjamin Nygren scored the opener for Sweden in their 3-1 UEFA Nations League victory over Poland - only days after claiming he’s shunned out ‘stupid comments’ from his slump in form at club level.

The 25-year old was one of the star men last season on his debut campaign, scoring 21 goals and registering five assists in all competitions. He continued his form into the start of this campaign - but in recent weeks his form has dwindled. The Swede featured in Celtic’s recent defeats to Rangers, Ferencvaros and Rangers again, but struggled to make an impact.

Ahead of Sweden’s clash with Poland at the Strawberry Arena in Solna on Monday night, Nygren hit back at his doubters, claiming he takes no notice of ‘stupid comments’. On the pitch, he also answered critics after firing in Sweden’s opener. Brighton midfielder Yasin Ayari and Arsenal striker Viktor Gyokeres were also on target for the hosts as they continued their 100% record in UEFA Nations League League B - Group Four.

Nygren hits back at ‘stupid comments’

Ahead of their clash with the Poles, Nygren told local media outlet Fotballskanalen: “As you know, those of you who work in the media, it tends to be black or white. As a player, there's no point in going in and reading things that people write in moments like these. You don't gain anything by going in and reading stupid comments. There are so many people who care about how things are going and I see that as something very cool and nice. I just try to do my best all the time and as a team you can't always win every game, even though we aim to do so."

Nygren was the subject of transfer speculation in the summer and has made no secret he’d like to play at a higher level one day. However, despite not playing a part in pre-season for the Hoops after an extended World Cup, he’s slotted straight back into manager Martin O’Neill’s starting XI. For Sweden, he was benched for their opening 2-1 victory at home to Romania on Friday night - but took his opportunity against Poland when deployed from the start.

Hoops star strikes on international duty

The Hoops midfielder is perhaps better known for his left foot in Glasgow - but on the international stage showcased his aerial ability. In the eighth minute, a corner from Besfort Zeneli soon found it’s way straight back to the winger, whose inviting cross was flicked on by defender Victor Lindelof, as Nygren drifted in at the back post to find the target with point blank header. Sweden’s official X page, Svensk Fotboll wrote: “Dream start to the match as Benjamin Nygren heads in the opener!”

The visitors struck back just before half time through winger Sebastian Szymanski - but Ayari and Gyokeres sealed the win for Sweden after the break. Nygren was substituted in the 80th minute to a warm reception from the home fans.

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