English 'dirty trick' blasted

Croatia FA president hits out at timing of Bilic reports

By James Dall   Last updated: 7th September 2008

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Bilic: Hammers rumours

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Croatia FA president Vlatko Markovic has blasted the reports linking Slaven Bilic with the vacant managerial position at West Ham United.

Bilic has been strongly linked with the Upton Park role following former boss Alan Curbishley's resignation on Wednesday.

Croatia twice beat England on the road to Euro 2008 and are preparing to host Fabio Capello's men next week in the second of the countries' 2010 World Cup qualifiers.

Markovic has been left disappointed at the timing of the rumours ahead of the vital game in Zagreb, but is adamant the speculation will have no effect on Bilic's men.

Sleaze

He said in the Sunday Express: "This is another dirty trick by the English. They obviously want to cause trouble for us before we play.

"It's typical of the sleaze in English football. For the story about West Ham wanting Bilic to come out now is very poor.

"We are very suspicious and unhappy as it is not the first time something like this has happened with England.

"There is no chance events at West Ham will damage us either this time."