Karlsson expects Johaug competition in the WC: – She will come

– I expect her to come. It will be cool to have her back, says Karlsson according to TT after the Swedish national team was presented on Thursday.

There has long been talk of a possible comeback for the Norwegian cross-country queen, and she herself has done little to dampen expectations.

She has previously stated that a decision about next season will be made during the month of May. The national team has kept a place open should she decide to bet again.

In Sweden, they have taken Johaug’s decision in advance. Karlsson is looking forward to meeting her on the track again.

– Three years ago I entered the training year focusing on how I could beat her. Then I hit her twice, says Karlsson.

Johaug has since become a mother for the first time and married Nils Jakob Hoff.

– She is not superhuman so I will not focus on beating her as much now as I did three years ago, adds Karlsson.

The Swede has followed what Johaug has done since she quit. At the weekend she ran the Grue half-marathon in 1.11.25, which is barely a minute behind the EC requirement.

– I saw it. She is on her toes, says Karlsson.