Mikael Samuelsson Is in Need of Some Clichés

Vancouver Canucks forward Mikael Samuelsson did not make the Swedish Olympic roster for 2010 despite helping them to the gold medal in 2006.  Thankfully, the Vancouver Sun reached him for comment.

"They can go f*** themselves ," Samuelsson said. "That's what I really think."

Samuelsson currently has 10 goals and 14 assists on the year for the Canucks.  He is in the first season of a three-year deal he signed with Vancouver after aiding Detroit to two straight Stanley Cup Finals appearances.

Despite suffering from nagging foot injuries, former NHL Hart Trophy winner Peter Forsberg was selected to return to the Swedish roster.

Swedish coach Bengt-Ake Gustafsson also picked Nashville forward Patric Hörnqvist for the squad.  Hörnqvist has scored five less points than Samuelsson this season, but is 11 years his junior and could figure to be a staple on the Swedish roster for years to come.

Still, former teammates of Samuelsson's in Detroit are backing the harsh reaction.

“I think it’s kind of nice when someone says what they really think instead of saying, 'OK, it was their decision, nothing I can do about it,''' said [Red Wings defenseman Andreas] Lilja. "Nice that people show emotions because he’s (ticked off). I don’t blame him.’’

To add insult to injury, the 2010 Olympic Ice Hockey games will be played at General Motors Place, the home ice of Samuelsson's Canucks.  The host city will have plenty to cheer for though, as twin brothers Henrik and Daniel Sedin are on the Swedish roster.