Unai Emery proven right as Swedish media drop verdict on Victor Lindelof's display

Aston Villa star Victor Lindelof proved why Unai Emery has stood by him with an impressive defensive display for Sweden against Poland.

Lindelof has racked up 35 appearances for Aston Villa in the last 12 months since he joined the club on a free transfer.

His career looked to be at a crossroads in 2025 after leaving Man United, with Emery taking a chance on the Swede to bolster his options at centre-back.

Lindelof, 32, impressed in his debut campaign at Villa as he featured in his favoured position as well as at right-back and in defensive midfield.

Emery has made him a regular starter in this campaign so far, keeping him in the side despite Villa's struggle for form.

Lindelof has shown exactly why he deserves that spot in the Villa starting eleven with an expert performance away from the club for Sweden in the Nations League.

Victor Lindelof labelled 'the heart' of Sweden's team in Poland win

The 32-year-old has been the Sweden captain since 2021, and he made his 82nd appearance for his country against Poland on Monday night.

He led Graham Potter's side to a 3-1 win on home turf to continue their winning start to the 2026-27 Nations League 'B' campaign.

Lindelof provided an assist for Benjamin Nygren's eighth-minute opener, made the most defensive contributions (11) of any player, had the joint-most touches (94) of any player and won all three of his attempted aerial duels.

SvenskaFans heaped praise on his showing after the clash, writing: "

While TVmatchen praised his composure as they wrote: "

Fotboll Skanalen praised his leadership, saying: "

Lindelof must carry Sweden form back to Villa, stats show why

Lindelof is in the middle of one of his longest spells in the Villa starting side since joining, but Emery may look to change things up after the international break.

The Sweden star's PL stats so far show that he must improve going forward, with his 23.2 per cent of duels won placing him in the lowest percentile for centre-backs so far.

He is also in the third percentile for tackles (0.2) per 90, sixth percentile for interceptions (0.2) per 90 and ninth percentile for clearances (3.6) per 90 up to now.

He must return to Villa Park with improved performances after the break or could find himself out of the side once again.