SUKER: LIONS ARE SO LUCKY

CROATIA legend Davor Suker has branded semifinal opponents England fortunate to still be in the World Cup. Gareth Southgate’s side take on Croatia in Moscow on Wednesday for a place in Sunday’s final in the Luzhniki Stadium. But former striker Suker (above), part of the Croatia side that last reached the World Cup semi-finals in 1998, suggested Southgate’s side were “lucky” to still be in with a shot at glory.

“I watched England’s game against Colombia, at the Spartak Stadium in Moscow, and you were lucky,” he said.

“Colombia had two chances to score to lead in the penalty shoot-out, so you were lucky.”

Ex-Real Madrid, Arsenal and West Ham hitman Suker acknowledged Southgate’s side are a far tougher prospect, as the big money in the Premier League has helped them to improve.

“Now they are very strong and we have to respect them,” he added.

“But money isn’t playing, Ferrari isn’t playing, watches aren’t playing, just 11 against 11 warriors in the World Cup.

“It will be 50-50 against England. It’s a great nation and we have a lot of players in the Premier League.”

Suker said Croatia are fortunate to have a true leader in Real Madrid playmaker Luka Modric.

He added: “Luka’s playing excellently. In every area of the midfield, he’s there. It’s good that he’s controlling the games.

“He’s a great captain and I like him.”