Sand rejects players' involvement

Neubarth was sacked earlier this week after a poor run of form which saw Schalke drop out of the reckoning for a place in Europe.

Reports in Germany claimed that a players revolt may have played a part in Neubarth's downfall, but Sand has rejected the suggestions.

"I have had phone conversations with (general manager) Rudi Assauer about the situation and I was informed what would happen before the sacking was official, but it was not the direct initiative of the players which made the manager take the step," Sand told BT.

Meanwhile, Sand is expected to start in Denmark's Euro 2004 qualifier with Romania and the striker is feeling at his best again after an indifferent spell.

"I have felt that I am in good shape during practice throughout the week and I am expecting to play from the start," added Sand.

"I am quite sure about it. I will surely score my goals again. I won't be going another 111 days before I score."