Cech issues Euro warning

Keeper demands respect

By Vasek Kadlec   Last updated: 6th June 2008

Cech Petr

Cech: In confident mood

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Petr Cech has warned Czech Republic's opponents not to underestimate Karel Bruckner's side.

The Czechs are generally regarded as dark horses to take the Euro 2008 title, with a squad capable of going all the way or imploding in disaster.

However, having reached the semi-finals four years ago their keeper is expecting to be shown some respect this time around.

"I am convinced that the other teams hold us in high regard," he told CTK.

"We have enjoyed six successful years and our results are always more important to us than anything else."

Mood

The Chelsea stopper also revealed that confidence among the Czech squad is high as they prepare to launch their European Championship campaign against co-hosts Switzerland on Saturday.

"The mood is very good with the first game coming up," Cech added.

"We cannot wait to play. I am particularly pleased that we are playing in the opening game of the tournament."

The Czech Republic's build-up has been hampered by injury scares, with national skipper Tomas Rosicky ruled out of the upcoming tournament with a hamstring problem.

Rehabilitation

Cech admits that the influential playmaker will be greatly missed, but is hoping that the Arsenal star will be granted permission to join up with the squad in Austria and Switzerland.

"The whole team has been in contact with Tomas practically all the time and we hope he can come and visit us," said the keeper.

"I hope the rehabilitation and, mainly his club, allow him to arrive."

Problem

Meanwhile, stand-in skipper Tomas Ujfalusi is determined to shake off a groin problem in time to lead his country out against the Swiss.

"At the end of Tuesday's training session I realised that I had a problem with my groin," he said.

"That is why I was jogging so lightly on Wednesday. On Thursday I had no problems in training, though, so it is not limiting me and I should be okay."