Profile

Uncapped at the time Karel Brückner announced his UEFA EURO 2008 squad, Václav Svěrkoš might yet prove to be the joker in the Czech Republic pack. His call-up is the consequence of an excellent 2007/08 season with FC Baník Ostrava in which he topped the 1. Liga goalscoring charts.

Made an early bid for glory in his teens, scoring 14 goals for Baník in the 2002/03 season – the second-best total in the league.

Moved abroad while still only 19, joining VfL Borussia Mönchengladbach; scored nine goals in debut Bundesliga campaign, seven the season afterwards.

Awarded the captaincy of the Czech Under-21 team.

Lost first-team place at Mönchengladbach and then made ill-fated move to Hertha BSC Berlin.

Rejoined Gladbach in 2006 but left midway through relegation season for FK Austria Wien, where he won Austrian Cup.

Returned to Baník in 2007; scored winner v FC Bohemians Praha in his return game – first of 15 goals scored over season as Silesian club finished third.

Did you know?

Sverkos got his opportunity at Baník first time around after the departure of Milan Baroš to Liverpool FC.