Burley backing Skacel for cap

BARRY ANDERSON

HEARTS midfielder Rudi Skacel is poised for a World Cup debut in Prague this evening when the Czech Republic meet Armenia, and manager George Burley could not be happier.

Skacel stated to Burley upon signing for Hearts in the summer that it was a resolute ambition of his to integrate himself within the Czech squad, and head coach Karel Bruckner is now ready to hand the player his first start.

"When Rudi came here he was keen to do well to get himself into his full national team. That's what he has done and it's great for the boy. I'm sure the Czech manager has looked at his performances at Hearts, where he has been outstanding.

"I'm very pleased for him that he is realising his ambition."

Burley watched Skacel play as a second-half substitute for the Czechs in a friendly with Sweden last month and believes that the on-loan midfielder is ideally suited to international football.

"He played for 45 minutes that night and did well so if he does get a start I think it is fully deserved. I don't think it will be any easier for him just because the game is against Armenia, but he has got into the side on merit.

"Czech Republic have some outstanding players, although I'm not sure if it's possible for Rudi to improve beyond his form for Hearts so far because he has been tremendous.

"Rudi is enthusiastic, an infectious type of lad on and off the field.

"Once he steps on the field his work-rate and commitment are second to none so I'll look forward to hearing how he does tonight."

Taken from the Scotsman