Frei fit to play for Swiss

Switzerland coach Ottmar Hitzfeld is adamant Alexander Frei will play in the World Cup.

Frei was out on a bike today as he continues his recovery from an ankle injury. He is scheduled to do some running tomorrow and ball work on Sunday.

The Basle striker is a key figure for Switzerland, who open against Spain on Wednesday, having scored 40 goals for his country.

Hitzfeld said: “I am sure that Alex will make his games in South Africa. If I was not confident, Alex would not be with us now.

“We are in a battle against time, but all of us will do our very best to get Alex ready as soon as possible. If he is to miss the game against Spain, there are some more games to come for him.

“He is very important for the team, his record of 40 goals scored in his career say much more than my words.”