It was an unfortunate incident during a match in September last year that almost put an end to his dreams of taking part in his 14th final tournament for Sweden.
Andreas Palicka keeps the exact nature of the elbow injury to himself, but says in an interview with svt.se that there were two choices: surgery with six months of rehab and definitely missing the European Championship, or shorter rehab, which would keep the hope of participating in the European Championships alive.
"I chose the last option and it became the driving force for me to get fit. From that day on, I worked diligently. It's related to my integrity that I don't want to say exactly what it was, but the injury was serious", says Andreas Palicka.
Ten weeks of rehab, including seven tough sessions with Swedish goalkeeping icon and TV expert Claes Hellgren, who restored his mental confidence and his physical strength. A tough period where he leaned on all the mental strength he had built during his career.
"After many of the physical exercises, you often end up in a corner in the fetal position. But I am grateful that I can get that reaction out of my body at my age. And I am proud to be eligible for this fantastic tournament we have ahead of us. I am a happy person", says Andreas Palicka.
Sweden plays their first match at the European Championships against the Netherlands on 16 January.