Popular bookmaker, bet365 (@bet365), have highlighted how close Pontus Jansson is to booking a place at next summer’s World Cup, with the Leeds United and Sweden defender on the verge of qualifying, whilst some of the world’s biggest talent could miss out.

Jansson was an unused substitute last night for Sweden, as they put one foot in Russia following a 1-0 victory over Italy in the first-leg of their qualifier. Sweden and Jansson are now just 90 minutes from qualifying for the World Cup at the expense of the Italians and legendry goalkeeper, Gianluigi Buffon.

Bet365 have also highlighted that the likes of Gareth Bale and Alexis Sanchez are also set to miss the World Cup next summer, whilst Jansson and his Swedish teammates edge closer to qualification.

Jansson, who has recently agreed a new five-year deal with Leeds, has picked up 13 international caps for Sweden, with the last of those coming back in June, after injury prevented the defender linking up with Sweden during October’s international break.

The 26-year-old was a spectator from the bench last night, as Jakob Johansson’s second-half goal handed Sweden the advantage heading into Monday’s return leg in Milan.

Leeds United fans… What do you make of bet365’s tweet? Let us know your thoughts!