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Czech Republic & Hearts Midfielder Rudi Skacel Earns Call-Up From Coach Karel Brueckner For Friendlies

Submitted by Scott Harkness on Tue, 21/02/2006 - 16:40.

Czech Republic midfielder Rudi Skacel has been told by Hearts head coach Graham Rix to grab his chance for World Cup glory after the 26 year-old midfielder's recall to the Czech Republic squad.

Skacel has been called up to face Turkey in two 1 March friendlies, against the Turkey ‘A’ and ‘B’ teams, and has been given the chance to impress Czech Republic coach Karel Brueckner enough to maybe earn himself a World Cup berth.

“Rudi's had a great season so far, and he's been very important to us,” said the Hearts manager Graham Rix.

“He now has a great target to go for with the forthcoming World Cup.”

The on-loan Marseille midfielder has scored 16 times for Scottish Premier League club Hearts this season.

A delighted Skacel said: “It is a positive step as the Czech squad is very strong.

“I am not thinking as far ahead as the World Cup at this stage as my first priority remains with Hearts and I want to focus on bringing success to the club.”