Jakub Vrana Benched by Linköping Amid Performance Struggles and Trade Speculation

Jakub Vrana has been excluded from Linköping's lineup for the match against Örebro due to his underwhelming performance since returning from the NHL. Despite initial high hopes for the 29-year-old forward, he was benched during the third period of the previous game against HV71 and has now been completely absent from the roster without explanation of injury or illness, according to Expressen (ID 122942).

Coach Mikael Håkansson cited a "competition situation" as the basis for Vrana's exclusion. Vrana himself acknowledged the coaches' dissatisfaction, saying, "I just have to accept it, keep working, and hopefully, trust will come back." However, his impact has been limited, having scored only three points in eleven games this season.

Expert Staffan Kronwall weighed in on TV4, suggesting Linköping consider trading Vrana if he cannot outperform the other forwards. Kronwall stated, "If Linköping has twelve forwards ahead of Vrana, I say ship him out." Linköping is currently enduring a five-game losing streak and struggled notably in their recent 4-0 first-period deficit against Örebro, adding to the tense atmosphere around Vrana's status.

There were also rumors during preseason that Vrana wanted to leave the team, although he denied these claims.

Linköping currently stands twelfth in the SHL league table with 16 points. The club and Vrana face mounting pressure to reverse fortunes as the season progresses.