Neumann sums up Czech chances

Having had a difficult time in his first UEFA European Futsal Championship finals in charge of the Czech Republic in 2007, two years ago Tomáš Neumann masterminded a superb run to third place in Hungary. As they prepare to face familiar opponents Romania and hosts Croatia in Group A this time around, Neumann spoke to UEFA.com.

UEFA.com: What do you think of your group opponents

Tomáš Neumann: It is certainly to our advantage that Croatia and Romania play first: we'll have a chance to see both of our opponents. But all the teams have a realistic chance to progress.

UEFA.com: After playing Romania you play the hosts Croatia - you know all about playing host teams in EURO tournaments, don't you?

Neumann: Sure. In the last two championships we've had the hosts in our group; in Portugal we played against Portugal and the same happened in Hungary, and here again. It's great, because we will be playing in front of a full house, in front of excellent supporters. I am really looking forward to it.

UEFA.com: Were the 2010 finals in Hungary the big breakthrough for Czech futsal?

Neumann: Getting the bronze medal in Hungay certainly helped us and we will try our best to get as far as we can here, too.

UEFA.com: How would you describe your philosophy?

Neumann: We tend to gradually introduce young players into our team. For example in a tournament in September, with four countries participating, we gave a chance to six players who still qualify for Under-21 competitions. So we are building a young team for the championships in Croatia.