Petkovic hits back
01 Jun 2006 - 15:09:00
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- Petkovic hits back
Dusan Petkovic has reacted angrily to criticism of his father's decision to call him into Serbia Montenegro's World Cup squad.
Coach Ilija Petkovic sprung a major surprise by naming his son, a central defender with OFK Belgrade, as the replacement for injured striker Mirko Vucinic.
A number of national newspapers branded the decision a "disgrace" and accused the coach of nepotism.
The younger Petkovic, who did not feature at all during the World Cup qualifiers, said: "I don't have problems with those comments but I feel sorry for the attacks on our head coach.
"It is well known that he was fair to all players and gave everyone a chance and led this country to the World Cup - he does not deserve comments like this.
"Why should I be the subject of a story while none of our other players were ever in such a controversy?
"None of them were ever asked, 'Why are you in the national team?'
"People started to attack both the head coach and me even though the World Cup hasn't started yet.
"What will happen if I get a chance in Germany and play well? What will happen if Ilija achieves great results there?"