Football Season Guide

Last season Djurgardens were top for 19 rounds of the Allsvenkan but, when it really mattered, they were found wanting. An inexplicable 3-2 defeat at home from Varberg in the run-in saw them finish 2 points behind Malmo and AIK. They were never out of the top 3 positions and their consolation is entry to the Europa Conference League qualifiers. Goalkeeper Vaiho has headed out on loan to Sirius leaving the goalkeeping position between Zetterstrom and Vasyutin. Experienced defender Une-Larsson has left along with Nyholm. Midfielder Edwards has departed after failing to establish himself in the team. Established strikers Barkroth and Chilufya, in addition to Kujovic, have all left leaving big gaps to fill. The right flank is boosted by the signing of Johansson after a few solid seasons at Kalmar. The left-back slot will be filled by highly experienced signing Bengtsson. Defenders Wallenborg and Hien return from loan spells with midfielder Andersson. Edvardsen is their biggest capture of the winter. The striker scored 15 for Degerfors last season and should score more in a better team. The question for Djurgardens is can their recast attack quickly gel and score goals? Central defence may be weakened too with the departure of Une-Larsson. Overall they have a strong squad and should be up there challenging for the title.