Former international defender Frantisek Straka has been appointed coach of Czech Republic. The 50-year-old replaces Petr Rada, who was sacked last month following poor displays in World Cup qualifying matches against Slovakia and Slovenia.
Straka narrowly beat out Dusan Uhrin, who helped lead the Czech Republic to the final of Euro 96, in a federation committee vote. “I’d like the team to get out of the difficult situation that has arisen (in the World Cup).” The Czechs are fourth in Group 3, five points behind leaders Northern Ireland but with a game in hand.