Baník's Lukes back in
Wednesday, March 26, 2003
Article summary
Martin Lukes has been recalled to the FC Baník Ostrava squad after his contract dispute was settled.
Article body
Supporters' protest
Lukes' current deal was due to expire in December and his failure to agree terms on a new contract saw him relegated to the reserves three weeks ago. However, the club's new owner, Daniel Vacek, the former professional tennis player, met with the forward after protests from the club's supporters which involved them bombarding the pitch with hundreds of tennis balls.
Lost ground
Baník have lost ground in their chase for a UEFA Cup place - after an eleven-year absence - losing two out of three games during Lukes' absence and dropping to sixth place in the Czech First Division.
'Glad to be back'
The details of the new contract have not yet been finalised but both parties agreed they could work together in the meantime. "I am glad to be back," Lukes said. "I want to reward the fans, who supported me during my exile. I am sure that we can still play in UEFA Cup and I am ready to help."
Attracting interest
The 24-year-old forward, who has been the subject of offers from several clubs including the defending champions FC Slovan Liberec, has scored 25 goals in 122 games for the club and won two caps for his country.