Kek targets Slovenian surge

Slovenia coach Matjaž Kek has vowed to attack after naming his squad for his first competitive games in charge.

'Score first'
Kek began his reign last month after succeeding Branko Oblak with a 1-0 friendly win against Estonia in Domzale. Next Saturday he takes his team to Albania in UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifying Group G before welcoming the Netherlands to Celje four days later. The coach has made one change to his selection with midfielder Luka Žinko replacing forward Zlatko Dedić, while three uncapped players - goalkeeper Jasmin Handanovič, defender Mitja Mörec and midfielder Dare Vrsič - remain in contention. Kek said: "I have watched our opponents and Albania will be tough. Our main goal is to score first. We have to put pressure on their defence."

Slovenia squad
Goalkeepers: Jasmin Handanovič (FC Koper), Samir Handanovič (Rimini Calcio).

Defenders: Matej Mavrič (TuS Koblenz), Fabijan Cipot (NK Maribor), Bojan Jokič (NK Gorica), Bostjan Cesar (Olympique de Marseille), Branko Ilič (NK Domžale), Mitja Mörec (SK Sturm Graz), Suad Filekovič (FC Krylya Sovetov Samara).

Midfielders: Luka Žinko (NK Domžale), Robert Koren (West Bromwich Albion FC), Anton Žlogar (Anorthosis Famagusta FC), Andrej Komac (Djurgårdens IF FF), Dare Vrsič (MŠK Žilina), Nastja Čeh (FC Khimki), Goran Šukalo (TuS Koblenz).

Forwards: Ermin Rakovič (NK Domžale), Milivoje Novakovič (1. FC Köln), Klemen Lavrič (MSV Duisburg), Valter Birsa (FC Sochaux-Montbéliard).