Mikel Ishak made his debut in the national team back in 2015. But then on a January tour.

The 29-year-old striker has yet to play in the "real" national team.

The last time he was in a squad was in 2018, and then he had to leave after injury problems.

But now he is back for the national team's matches against Serbia and Slovenia.

- It's very fun, of course.

I have worked hard for this and finally I am here, says Ishak to SVT Sport.

"Put in another gear"

This season, Ishak has accounted for ten goals in 15 competitive matches.

The season before that he scored 18 goals.

And the season before that 20 hits.

Despite that, he has tried not to hope too much for a place in the national team.

- I've tried not to think about it too much.

About two years ago when I was playing at a high level in the Europa League and in the league I had a little hope, but didn't make it then.

- So then we put in another gear.

I've been pushing and scoring a lot and in the end I made it.

Looks like a central striker

Sweden changed its playing system during the last national team gathering from a 4-4-2 to a 4-3-3.

Something that Ishak thinks suits him.

- If we play with that system, I see myself as a central striker.

I have played in that system before.

It suits me well, he says.

What can you contribute?

- Be the team player I am.

Hard-working.

Score a lot of goals and assists.

Being able to come in and change a match picture.

CUT: Isak Hien: It has always been a dream to play in the national team

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Isak Hien.

Photo: Bildbyrån