Dimitrov boost for Bulgaria
Monday, June 7, 2004
Article summary
Bulgaria coach Plamen Markov has received positive news about midfield player Velizar Dimitrov's thigh injury.
Article body
Good news
The attack-minded Dimitrov, of PFC CSKA Sofia, has missed the last two days of training after hurting his left thigh last week but Markov expects him to return to action tomorrow. "Our team doctor Mihail Iliev has assured me that Velizar will be fully fit for EURO 2004™," said Markov. "He suffered a slight knock during the friendly against the Czech Republic. He will be OK."
No worries
There are no other injury problems affecting the squad and Markov expects to be able to choose his strongest team to face the Swedes a week today. "All the other players are fine," he said. "I am sure they realise what is ahead of us. I think they have the mentality to play at such a big tournament."
Not favourites
However, Markov, who said he had "a very clear idea" of his starting lineup, was keen to play down the Bulgarians' chances of success this summer. "I have said many times before we are outsiders," he said. "That's the reality. Sweden, Italy and Denmark are very strong teams and we are definitely not the favorites in Group C.
Clear goal
"We have no illusions and we will go to Portugal with only one aim - to play our best possible football. There is absolutely no pressure on me and on the players. I think that suits us very well."
