Manchester United duo face World Cup uncertainty as Sweden refuse to face Russia

The Swedish Football Association have confirmed that the men's national team will not face Russia next month if they end up being scheduled to meet in the 2022 FIFA World Cup play-offs.

Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in the early hours of Thursday morning, a raft of sporting sanctions have been imposed against Russia, from both individual nations and governing bodies.

It was confirmed on Saturday morning that the Polish Football Association have refused to face Russia in their scheduled play-off showdown next month. The two nations were scheduled to go head-to-head on March 24th in Moscow.

In the event of Russia having won that match, they would have faced either Sweden or the Czech Republic four days later for a place at the World Cup finals in Qatar.

However, the Swedish FA, in the event of beating the Czech Republic and then being tasked with facing Russia, have confirmed that they will not lock horns with the Russian national team.

A statement said: "The men's national team will not play against Russia - regardless of where the match is played.

"The Federal Board also urges FIFA to cancel the play-off matches in March in which Russia participates."

Whilst UEFA and the FIA, amongst others, have imposed sanctions against Russia, FIFA are yet to follow suit, although they are under mounting pressure to act swiftly.

With Sweden having confirmed that they have no plans to face Russia, in the event of them beating the Czechs, it could impact Manchester United duo Victor Lindelof and Anthony Elanga in their hopes of competing at the World Cup later this year.

Lindelof is a seasoned Sweden international and Elanga will be hoping to earn a call-up to the squad after a terrific run of performances for United in