The 36-year-old, winner of Olympic gold medals in the 4x10 kilometres relay at Vancouver 2010 and Sochi 2014, had missed the whole of last season to concentrate on longer distance races.

He has now opted to target adding to his World Championship medal collection, which currently stands at two gold, four silvers and one bronze.

Olsson's last world title came at the 2015 Championships in Falun, where he won the men’s 15km freestyle event in front of his home crowd.

“I have decided to fight for the World Championships in Lahti,” said Olsson.

“The best way to do that is through the national team.”

Olsson's  return comes as the Swedish Ski Association revealed their coaching team for the 2016-2017 season.

Rikard Grip has been given the overall responsibility of the national team and its operations.

It followed past spells working as the national team’s manager and men’s coach.

Ola Ravald has been place in charge of the men’s team and will be supported in his role by Lars Selin.

Ravald was widely credited with the country’s success in sprint competitions at the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin, where Sweden topped the medals table in cross-country skiing.

It followed victories in the men’s and women’s sprint events, while Björn Lind triumphed in the men’s individual sprint competition.

Johan Granath will continue as the women’s coach, having held the role for the past three-years, with Norwegian Ole Morten Iversen assisting.

Iversen’s son Emil enjoyed a breakthrough year in this year’s World Cup, the 24-year-old claiming two victories.