The Croatian chief has assured Italy that he upholds the highest sporting values just like La Roja, and will not stitch-up the Azzurri intentionally.
Slaven Bilic has given his word to Italy that he will not be a party to any attempt at stitching up their last group match of the tournament, and has stressed that he would rather prefer getting knocked out then betray his honour.
The Azzurri must beat http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Republic-of-Ireland-c2987 to have any chance of qualifying for the next phase of the Euro 2012, but may still be knocked out of the tournament if the match between La Roja and the Blazers ends in a 2-2 draw.
Bilic was adamant that he believes in the highest standards of sportsmanship, and will do nothing to hurt their honour.
The Blazers manager stated that the Spanish camp shares his values of integrity in the game, and insisted that the idea of being unfair to anyone will never be entertained by him.
The http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Everton-c13019 player stressed that the speculation surrounding a possible stitch-up by the two teams has been blown out of proportion by the media, and assured Italy that the two teams will not stoop to any such unsporting activity.
The Croatia chief acknowledged the fact that their match against the Spaniards could end in a 2-2 stalemate, but maintained that if something like that happens it would only be a co-incidence.
While talking to the press, the 43-year-old said:
“We are sportsmen and have our honour to defend. We are not thinking about ripping anyone off and we won’t do it. The Spaniards think the same way as we do. http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Italy-c2926 have to trust us and relax. If the game does end 2-2, it will be a coincidence and not a stitch-up.”
The Blazers coach went on to remark on the importance of the rare chance to lock horns with the World and European Champions.
Bilic hailed http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Spain-c3011 as one of the greatest teams in the world, and stated that he has a lot of respect for their opposition of the next game.
The http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Croatia-c2879 boss stated that the match against the Roja is one of the most important matches in the history of their national team, and stressed that a win against the Spaniards will be a dream come true for him.
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