EXCLUSIVE: Taha Ali from Sweden Prepared for World Cup Call-Up

A significant advantage for Ali is that he has already impressed the new Sweden manager, Graham Potter, who selected the 27 year old as one of just five players based in Sweden for his team in Marchs play offs, during which the Swedes defeated Ukraine and then overcame Poland in thrilling style to qualify for the finals.

Ali remained an unused substitute in both fixtures, which occurred more than two years after his sole senior appearance to date, a 2 1 friendly victory against Estonia, yet his prospects of joining the tournament have grown since the Englishmans appointment, with Ali noting that the coach made him feel valued right from their initial encounter.

Even so, in his conversation with Flashscore following Malmos 1 0 away triumph over AIK on Monday 27th, his modesty was evident, as he emphasised that no outcome is assured. Raised in the Stockholm area of Spanga Tensta by Somali parents, the ex Sweden futsal player discussed with enthusiasm the qualification moment for Blagult.

You were included in the squad last month for two remarkable matches. How did it feel to be involved in that, despite not playing?

"It ranked as one of the greatest, possibly the greatest, sensations I have experienced, and it is a honour few receive. I remain grounded enough to savour it, and naturally, I hope to be prepared if the opportunity arises again."

You will definitely use the upcoming games in the coming weeks to secure your place in the World Cup squad, right?

Absolutely! I aim to continue developing and ideally earn plenty of points too, so that when the moment arrives, I am among the players on his (Potters) mind.

In the recent camp, reports suggested Potter has injected fresh vitality into the team. What are your thoughts on his approach and his personal interactions with you?

"It is challenging to assess fully, since during my time there we faced two games in a week, and we do not converse constantly, but from the outset, in our discussions, he proved approachable, you can discuss anything with him, and you feel at ease in his presence. It created a positive impression for me, particularly as I had a prior meeting with him before joining the national side, so that gesture alone felt remarkable, like I matter in that regard. Thus, arriving at the camp after already knowing him made everything far smoother for me too."

That surely boosted your morale considerably?

"It was essential, truthfully. That meeting addressed my queries, and he inquired about various matters. It seemed like the initial hurdle was cleared. Consequently, when attending the camp, I did not wonder about my status, you understand? It was excellent in that way."

There is a considerable distance to cover yet, but you genuinely have the opportunity to reach the World Cup. Did you ever imagine reaching this stage?

"Previously, I recognised my abilities and believed I demonstrated them in Europa League fixtures and routinely in Allsvenskan. I am aware of my capabilities, yet I stay modest, playing in Allsvenskan, and I understand the calibre of players picked for the national side. Therefore, I must recall that inclusion in the World Cup is not guaranteed, but should the possibility emerge, I am prepared."

To be candid, have you examined the defensive frailties of Swedens Group F rivals, Japan, Netherlands, and Tunisia, to identify ways to exploit them?

"No, no, no! (Laughs) It is still a distant event! If selected, I will certainly review their games then!"