Östersund manager, Graham Potter, believes Arsenal’s arrival in Sweden for their Europa League tie could inspire the next generation of Swedish footballers.

Potter, who spent time as a defender at Stoke City and West Brom, hung up his boots when he was just 30, and took over at the small club, founded the same year Arsene Wenger took over at Arsenal, more than six years ago.

“To say we’re looking forward to it is an understatement,” he told the Daily Mail.

“We see it as a reward for a fantastic 2017, and a gift for football in the northern part of Sweden. People have been queuing up at five in the morning for tickets, when it’s minus 20 outside.

“We could have sold the game out four or five times over.

“To have such a big club coming to Östersund could inspire the next generation of footballers in Sweden.”

I’m sure the Swedes have looked at Arsenal’s away form this season and feel they have a chance, especially given the conditions expected.

Potter also had some advice for Arsene Wenger’s men ahead of an experience unlike any they’ve likely endured before.

“Don’t wear too many clothes. Just think of it as a summer’s day in north London.

“And don’t bother with gloves. You won’t need those.”

It is expected to be around -3c when Arsenal kick-off on Thursday evening. It will, however, feel more like -10c with snow expected along with 24km/h gusts of wind.

Östersund v Arsenal kicks off at 6pm (UK time).