Ibrahimovic agent blasts Hamren doubts

Sweden striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic yesterday slammed new national coach Erik Hamren for making public the player's doubts on his international future.

"A player with Zlatan's status should be able to have the right to reflect in peace without being put under pressure in this fashion," Mino Raiola told the Aftonbladet tabloid.

"I would have acted differently. This risks aggravating the situation," Raiola added.

He was speaking after Hamren, appointed following the recent resignation of Lars Lagerback, explained why he had not selected Ibrahimovic, 22 goals in 62 games, in his 24-man squad to face Italy in a November 18 friendly.

Earlier, Hamren and the player had had a discussion during which Ibrahimovic said he might have to consider his future with the Swedes if he did not make the squad.

"There is a name missing - that of Zlatan. He does not know if he wants to continue playing in the national side. You cannot force a horse to drink. I want motivated players in the national side," he added.

Divided opinion

Ibrahimovic, 28, was voted Sweden's player of the year for the fourth straight time on Monday for his exploits with Inter ahead of his move to Barca as well as in the yellow and blue of his country - although the Swedes failed to qualify for the World Cup.

Opinion is divided in Sweden, however, on his situation with the national side with some detecting a lack of motivation while others believe Hamren's comments could hasten the striker's eventual exit from the international arena.

Hamren took over last week after Lagerback fell on his sword following the team's failure to reach the World Cup finals in South Africa next summer, though the former will also retain his responsibilities as coach of Norwegian side Rosenborg next season.