Relegated from the English Premier League with Reading FC in May, Marek Matějovský will be hoping for better fortunes at UEFA EURO 2008. The skilful midfielder broke into the Czech squad during the qualifying campaign after some inspirational performances for his former club FK Mladá Boleslav.

Started in second-tier football with Mladá Boleslav and returned to club after failing to make grade in top flight with FK Jablonec 97.

Promoted with Mladá Boleslav in 2004; scored first 1. Liga goal against SK Slavia Praha in March 2005 (2-2).

Captained Mladá Boleslav to remarkable second place in 2005/06 but lost UEFA Champions League third qualifying round tie against Galatasaray AS; reappeared in UEFA Cup and helped knock out Olympique de Marseille.

Played in second UEFA Cup campaign in 2007/08 for Mladá Boleslav before joining Reading in January; debut v Manchester United FC and scored sole Premier League goal v Liverpool FC (15 March).

Memorable first start in a competitive international – UEFA EURO 2008 qualifier v Germany in Munich, a 3-0 win in which he scored his first goal for Czech Republic and also hit the post.

Did you know?
Matejovsky held his wedding at Mlada Boleslav's stadium in 2007.