Smicer named Czech Republic boss

Former Liverpool midfielder Vladimir Smicer has been named as Czech Republic manager - only a day after he announced his retirement from playing.

Smicer, who will work with coach Michal Bilek, will travel with the team for Sunday's friendly against the United Arab Emirates at the Al Ahli Club.
 
He succeeds Ivan Hasek, who resigned after the Czechs failed to qualify for the 2010 World Cup.
 
The 36-year-old brought an end to his playing career because of injury.
 
His six-year spell at Anfield was blighted by injury but he will be fondly remembered on the red half of Merseyside for scoring the second goal in the team's Champions League final victory over AC Milan in 2005.
 
He was also a member of the Czech squad that reached the semi-finals of Euro 2004, losing to eventual winners Greece.
 
Smicer, who has no previous managerial experience, ended his playing days with Slavia Prague after moving from Bordeaux in 2007.

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