Call for creative Modric
LUKA MODRIC has been ordered to spark up Croatia’s attack and rescue the World Cup finalists from an early Euro 2020 exit.
The sluggish Croats laboured during defeat to England but can revive their chances against Czech Republic at Hampden tonight.
Coach Zlatko Dalic is planning a shake-up after playing Ante Rebic as a lone striker and Andrej Kramaric on the right wing.
But Dalic’s main aim will be to give Real Madrid playmaker Modric more freedom to create with more attacking Nikola Vlasic coming in.
Dalic said: “We have to improve in attack. It won’t be easy against the Czech Republic or Scotland, but I’m optimistic.
“In our last games against Belgium and England we didn’t win. But we weren’t crushed.
“We need a win to give us confidence. One good win would really open us up.
“We will see a different Croatia against the Czech Republic compared to the one against England.
“Not only in approach, tactics and style, but also we will see some new players.”
Czech coach Jaroslav Silhavy has warned his side they are not qualified for the last 16 yet despite an opening win over Scotland.
“Croatia have players who like playing the ball and build up attacks from the back,” said Silhavy.
“I still consider them among two favourites of our group with England.”
CROATIA (4-2-3-1): Livakovic; Vrsaljko, Lovren, Vida, Gvardiol; Modric, Kovacic; Rebic, Vlasic, Perisic; Petkovic.
CZECH REPUBLIC (4-2-3-1): Vaclik; Coufal, Celustka, Kalas, Boril; Kral, Soucek; Masopust, Darida, Jankto; Schick.
REFEREE: Carlos del Cerro Grande (Spain).