Frei back for Swiss after spitting ban

STRIKER Alexander Frei returns to Switzerland’s squad for their World Cup Group Four qualifier against Israel in Tel Aviv on October 9 following a two-game ban.

Frei has not played for Switzerland since being suspended from international football by UEFA for spitting at England midfielder Steven Gerrard during Euro 2004. Frei, of French first division side Stade Rennes, missed Switzerland’s opening two World Cup qualifiers because of the ban.

In his absence, the team beat the Faroe Islands 6-0 and drew 1-1 with Ireland in September.

Switzerland manager Koebi Kuhn dropped Young Boys striker Thomas Haeberli to accommodate Frei but he will face competition for a starting place from Alexander Rey and Johan Vonlanthen. The only other change from the squad that faced the Faroe Islands and Ireland is the addition of FC Thun goalkeeper Fabio Coltori.