Swiss set on solid base

By Andrew Haslam in Nottwil

Hosts Switzerland have surprised many by eliminating holders Italy to reach the UEFA European Under-19 Championships semi-finals.

Long-term planning
For Swiss coach Pierre-André Schürmann, the side's current success signifies much more than the latest proof of the burgeoning careers of many of the players who lifted the European Under-17 trophy in Denmark two years ago. Schürmann is keep to emphasise the long-term programme of the Swiss Football Association, with the U19 side one part of a greater plan.

U21 priority
"Before these finals, we had an internal discussion and it was decided to promote three players - [Philippe] Senderos, [Tranquillo] Barnetta and [Johan] Vonlanthen - to the Under-21 side," he told uefa.com. "That has to be our priority, which is slightly unfortunate from an U19 point of view, but it gives a chance to players they perhaps would not have had had those three been available.

Player promotion
"But there is no point in talking about players who are not here," Schürmann continued. "Their promotion will benefit Switzerland more in the long term; a coach's role is not just restricted to results but is to prepare players for a higher level. Four players have already graduated to the U21s from our team, and now we must work on promoting another three or four. We are a small country and we must make the most of the players at our disposal."

Perfect combination
Senderos captained the side to U17 glory two years ago but, despite his departure, eleven of Schürmann's current 18-man party played in those finals and their coach feels the players are growing together. "I think that my players are physically strong, but also technically good and play intelligently," he said. "This tournament is a new experience for them and is important for their progress and development, so we have done lots of work with this group."

Extensive preparations
Switzerland prepared thoroughly for these finals, as Schürmann outlined. "Before the tournament we spent ten days in the mountains where we focused our work on the physical condition of the players," he said. "We then played three matches against league sides from Switzerland and Russia and finished our preparations with six days in Weggis. Before the end of June we allowed the players to rest and two weeks of holidays, which is important for their recuperation."

'Path to professionalism'
Switzerland have already booked a berth in next year's FIFA World Youth Championship by guaranteeing a top-three finish in the section, but Schürmann is not looking too far ahead just yet. "We have never spoken about the World Youth Championship with the players because for us it is just another step; they must learn and grow on the path to becoming a professional," he said. "Our work is not just focused on achievement; we don't just speak about results. We look at the team's performances, which I think are more important."

Swiss mix
The host nation have drawn more than 10,000 spectators to their fist two matches, and Schürmann believes the explanation for this is clear. "The crowds we have had so far are a mark of support," he said. "The side has different technical qualities, and includes second-generation Balkans, Italians and Brazilians. The team represents the image of the Swiss today and a particularly positive aspect of this team is that they have unique qualities in terms of behaviour and mentality. The team gives everything, and never gives up. Most importantly, as well as being successful, they give pleasure as well."