Coach explains Hlozek's surprise World Cup call-up

Adam Hlozek of TSG Hoffenheim has been included in the Czech Republic's World Cup squad despite logging just 37 minutes in the Bundesliga. National team coach Miroslav Koubek rejected the idea that the selection was a risk, saying, "No, because we know him; we know what sort of player he is and how he can help us." Koubek added that he watched Hlozek's six-minute cameo — including injury time — in the 1–0 win over Bremen and saw him shape four key moments while looking outstanding physically.

Hlozek repaid that faith in last Sunday's 2-0 friendly win over Kosovo, setting up Tomas Ladra's 12th-minute opener and then scoring his first international goal in almost a year with a finish in the 32nd minute. Still Hoffenheim's record signing at €18 million, Hlozek has been hampered by a series of injuries.

Last season he made only five substitute appearances and in late April logged 31 minutes in the 3. Liga for the club's reserve side.

Czech Republic, Hoffenheim

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