Experienced defender Marek Jankulovski has given the Czech Republic coach Karel Bruckner a massive boost before the start of the Euro 2008 tournament by declaring himself fully fit for the first game against Switzerland.

 

 

The AC Milan player has missed much of this season with a knee problem that required surgery. Jankulovski said “I think the knee's condition is good, I believe my knee will be 100 percent fit.” The 31 year old has spent the last few weeks training with the Czech squad in an attempt to regain his fitness and with 62 caps is regarded as one of the team’s most senior players.

With influential playmaker Tomas Rosicky already sidelined, Jankulovski’s confirmation that he is ready will help to improve moral amongst the Czech players.

Jankulovski was recently named the Czech Republic Player of the Year. It is the first time that a defender has won the award for seventeen years.

 

The prize is given as recognition for his commitment to his country and for the role that he played in helping AC Milan win the Champions League in 2007.