Emil Krafth's international absence explained ahead of Newcastle United's visit to Old Trafford

The Newcastle United defender played in last week’s 2-1 World Cup qualifying win over Spain.

However, Krafth was not involved in the weekend’s friendly against Uzbekistan.

And Sweden coach Janne Andersson revealed yesterday that the 27-year-old had been allowed to leave the training camp to be with his partner, who’s expecting their second child.

Krafth rejoined his team-mates ahead of Sweden’s qualifier against Greece in Athens tonight. Newcastle play Manchester United at Old Trafford on Saturday.