Bruckner keeps alive hopes of Nedved return

Following the Czech Republic's 2:0 defeat of Macedonia in the team's final World Cup qualifier this year, football coach Karel Bruckner hinted Wednesday he has not given up on the possibility of midfeilder Pavel Nedved returning to the national side.

The former team captain, who was dogged by injury after Euro 2004, announced his - apparently definite - retirement from the national side in late September.

However, Mr Bruckner has now indicated he would at some point still like to meet with Mr Nedved to discuss the matter, saying it was his duty as coach to do so as long as Nedved was healthy. Still, the national side coach pointed out it was early days yet, saying arrangements had not yet even begun to be organised for the two men to meet.