Loose hands Beck chance
Thursday, April 17, 2003
Article summary
Liechtenstein coach Ralf Loose has included newcomer Roger Beck in his 18-man squad to face Saudi Arabia.
Article body
Surprise choice
Roger Beck of USV Eschen/Mauern is given his first call-up in place of FC Vaduz's Christoph Ritter, who has decided to retire from international football in favour of his club duties. Beck's nomination was a surprise since he is a forward and Ritter a defender.
'An extraordinary honour'
"I am very glad to have been called up," said Beck. "It is an extraordinary honour to be part of this supreme circle. It would be also a step further if I would really get a chance to play."
Steady squad
Loose otherwise keeps faith with the squad he has used for the UEFA EURO 2004™ fixtures against Turkey, England and Slovakia, meaning Remo Eberle of Chur 97, FC Schaan's Patrik Hefti and Vaduz Under-19 player Reto Mündel all miss out.
Single point
With one point from their four games, Liechtenstein lie bottom EURO 2004™ qualifying Group 7, after a draw against F.Y.R. Macedonia was followed by defeats against Turkey, England and Slovakia. They visit the Macedonians in their next fixture on 7 June.
Liechtenstein squad
Heeb, Jehle, Gigon, Hasler, Ospelt, Michael Stocklasa, Zech, M Beck, D'Elia, Gerster, T Nigg, Martin Stocklasa, Telser, R Beck, R Büchel, Burgmeier, Frick, T Beck.