Markov goes back to basics

By Stoyan Georgiev

Kishishev retirement
The right-hand side of Bulgaria's defence has been a problematic area for Markov since May last year, when Radostin Kishishev retired at the age of 29 after a half-century of appearances for his country. Markov has refused to speculate that the Charlton Athletic FC defender might return, instead maximising his efforts to find a replacement. "I have used Daniel Borimirov, Elin Topuzakov and Iliyan Stoyanov as right-backs," said Markov, "It's one of many problems we have to fix."

Ivanov returns
An old name will be given his chance against Cameroon - Vladimir Ivanov, the 31-year-old who made two appearances for Bulgaria in the mid-1990s. The right-back has caught Markov's eye with some sterling displays for PFC Lokomotiv Plovdiv. Kiril Kotev has also impressed for the league leaders and wins a first call, although he is unlikely to be included in the starting eleven.

'Strong opponents'
The visit of Cameroon is Bulgaria's penultimate friendly before they open their Group C campaign against Sweden on 14 June. With just a trip to Prague on 2 June to play the Czech Republic to come, Markov is not underestimating the importance of Wednesday's fixture. "It's very important for us," he said. "Cameroon are a strong side, one of the best teams in Africa. I've always said we needed strong friendly opponents and Cameroon fit that bill."

Delayed arrival
It will be Cameroon's first match since elimination from the African Cup of Nations at the quarter-final stage, yet their preparations have not gone smoothly: visa problems in Paris were expected to delay their arrival in Sofia until the day of the match. Coach Winfried Schaefer has a much-changed squad, with four new faces included. Joseph-Desiré Job and Pierre Womé are also back along with Arsenal FC's Lauren, who has reversed his decision to retire.

Fitness fight
Markov also hopes to have some familiar faces back in the fold in time for Portugal. Vladimir Manchev returned from a knee injury to play for Lille OSC last Saturday, while fellow forward Svetoslav Todorov is nearing fitness at Portsmouth FC after overcoming knee ligament damage. "I've spoken to them both of them and I hope they'll be fully fit," said Markov, who will give the duo as long as possible to prove their fitness. He is expected to name his squad on 23 May.