SLOVAKIA striker Marek Mintal has promised to step into the shoes of captain Robert Vittek for Saturday’s Euro 2008 qualifier against the Republic of Ireland.

NOBODY in the Burlington Hotel’s Elgin Suite was surprised yesterday when Slovak coach Jan Kocian was asked his opinion on the crisis facing his opposite number.

SLOVAKIA have lost two players through suspension for Wednesday’s Group D clash with the Republic of Ireland at Croke Park.

GERMANY face arguably their toughest task yet under Joachim Low when they travel to Slovakia looking to add to their four-match unbeaten run.

SLOVAKIAN international midfielder Miroslav Karhan has accused football’s governing body FIFA of not wanting his country to qualify for the 2006 World Cup finals at the expense of Spain.