Czech coach taken ill, cancels press conference

Czech Republic coach Karel Bruckner cancelled his press conference on Tuesday after being taken ill suddenly only days before they open their Euro 20087 campaign against co-hosts Switzerland.

The 68-year-old – who steps down after the tournament – was apparently indisposed as a result partly to do with a recent back operation.

“It was a temporary moment,” said Lukas Tucek, the Czech team spokesperson.

“I don't think it is anything serious.”

Bruckner, who is likely to be replaced after Euro 2008 by his assistant Petr Rada, took over the national side in December 2001 and guided them to the Euro 2004 semi-finals and to the 2006 World Cup, where they slumped to a first round exit.