Vladimír Šmicer had to make one of the toughest decisions of his football career. Coach of the national team, Brűckner, nominated him for the upcoming World Cup, despite Šmicer’s persistent knee injury that did not allow him to play practically all spring. Despite all exercises, rehabilitation, etc., there was not sufficient improvement that would permit him to participate in a game situation. The time has come for him to tell Brűckner that he won’t be able to participate in the World Cup. One can imagine the disappointment of a 33-year old player who, despite many achievements in his football career, has never played in the World Cup and this was his last chance to do so.
On this occasion, Šmicer provided a wide ranging interview to reporters. Although he grew up in the Slavia Prague football system, he is not very fond of what is happening in Slavia these days and he makes no bones about it. He is also quite candid about his dissatisfaction with the current leadership of the Czech football.
One of the questions was about his future return to the Czech Republic (he is currently playing for Girondins Bordeaux after having played for many years for FC Liverpool). He endeared himself to all Bohemka fans with the following answer: “For as long as there is an interest in my services abroad, I do not intend to return. However, when I eventually return, I would like to go to Bohemka. I am a great fan of Bohemka, I have always loved that stadium.” You are always welcome in Ďolíček, Šmíca!
Speaking of the Czech national football team, it is also well known that beside Šmicer, another national team player has always been a big Bohemka fan - the giant forward Jan Koller. On top of that, Bohemka already has Tomáš Rosický’s brother on its roster. And defenseman Martin Jiránek is a product of Bohemka youth football system (he is also a member of the DFB). No connection to Petr Čech, but his back-up, Blažek, made a name for himself by playing goal for years for Bohemka. Now only if somebody could talk to Nedvěd....
