Freddie Ljungberg has given his latest update to whufc.com from the Euro 2008 finals as he and Sweden prepare for the challenge of facing Spain in Innsbruck on Saturday night. Both sides got off to winning starts in Group D on Tuesday - Sweden beating Greece 2-0 and Spain winning 4-1 against Russia - and victory for either side would be a significant step towards the quarter-finals.
whufc.com: How did it feel to get off to such a good start in the opening game against Greece?
Freddie Ljungberg: It felt great, we didn't go into the game intimidated by the holders and I think we played well and showed that. To win 2-0 means we have a great start to the tournament and I think we deserved to win.
whufc.com: You played the whole 90 minutes. It was a physical game but is the rib injury behind you now?
FL: Yes the injury is completely behind me. I tried to play the football I'm used to without letting the injury hamper me and everything seems to be fine so I am only looking forward now.
whufc.com: You have scored at Sweden's last two major finals tournaments. How disappointed are you that you were so unlucky with that late chance against Greece that led to the second goal?
FL: It was a chance that I would have loved to finish but it wasn't to be, the important thing is that we did score though.
whufc.com: Spain are next. They also started impressively. Are you confident that Sweden can achieve a positive result and what kind of game do you expect?
FL: Spain have had an impressive start and they will be a tough opposition but we have been watching them play and we're confident that we can perform well against them. It will certainly be a fast paced match and I would expect a few goals.
whufc.com: You may come up against old Arsenal team-mate Cesc Fabregas. Have you spoken about the game?
FL: We haven't actually, I've not had a chance to speak with Cesc. I'm sure he's as focused on the tournament as I am and is looking forward to the game.
whufc.com: Your Sweden team-mate Niclas Alexandersson also had a spell at West Ham United in 2003. Have you talked at all about playing for the club?
FL: Yes, he has fond memories of playing at West Ham, the players, the fans and the staff. West Ham is not a club you forget in a hurry!
whufc.com: Is the left-sided midfield position your favourite one in the team?
FL: I'm not sure that it is my favourite position but I do feel very comfortable there. I managed to get into some good areas against Greece and make some runs which is what my game is all about so I'm enjoying it.
whufc.com: Have you had much chance to enjoy the tournament away from focusing on the matches with Sweden?
FL: Yes, of course we watch the other games when we can, it's important to study the other teams, especially those you may be facing later in the tournament! It's great to be able to see all the best players in Europe perform on the biggest stage, it's something we all look forward to as both players and fans of the game.
COMING SOON - YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A SIGNED FREDDIE SHIRT