Jozic - favouring younger players (Allsport)
JOZIC WIELDS THE AXE
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Croatia coach Mirko Jozic is likely to drop
veteran stars Robert Prosinecki and Davor Suker for the crucial clash
against Italy.
Croatia were a massive disappointment in their Group G opening 1-0 defeat to
Mexico.
Boris Zivkovic was dismissed for the foul which led to Cuauhtemoc Blanco's
penalty winner.
And both of the experienced duo put in poor displays.
Prosinecki was ineffective in midfield and was substituted at half-time, while
Suker, the Golden Boot winner at France '98, was replaced 20 minutes later.
Jozic hinted that he will wield the axe for the match against their
neighbours.
"Prosinecki, Suker and Boksic weren't fresh," said Jozic.
"The younger, hungrier players like Ivica Olic [the Croatian league's top
goal-scorer], Bosko Balaban and Jurica Vranjes of Leverkusen are all ready and
eager to play."
"I need to raise the team psychologically."
The Croats' World Cup could be over if they lose and Mexico win.
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