Petkovic pulls out

Dusan Petkovic, the son of Serbia and Montenegro coach Ilija Petkovic, has pulled out of the World Cup squad after a media outcry against his inclusion.

Petkovic, 32, was drafted in to the 23-man party last week to replace injured Lecce striker Mirko Vucinic.

However, last night, just before the squad were due to fly out to their World Cup base in Billerbeck, the defender held talks with Serbo-Montenegrin FA (FSSCG) officials and decided it would be best if he withdrew.

He said: “The pressure was too strong for me, my father and my team-mates. I don’t want to be part of that, and I won’t travel to Germany.”

FSSCG president Tomislav Karadzic insists the decision will not affect the squad’s preparations.

He said: “It is true, Dusan left after last night’s talks.

“He confirmed that he is under huge pressure, and as he said he couldn’t see himself at the World Cup in such circumstances.

“Dusan met with the other players, explained his decision and wished them all the best in Germany.

“His decision is final, we’ll have to find a replacement soon as the World Cup is starting in three days.

“Fortunately for us, our national team is in good shape, and prepared for the biggest competition of all.”