Skacel is given a World Cup boost
Hearts head coach Graham Rix has told Rudi Skacel to grab his chance for World Cup glory after the midfielder's recall to the Czech Republic squad.
Skacel has been called up to face Turkey in a 1 March friendly as striker Calum Elliot was named in the latest Scotland Under-21 squad.
"Rudi's had a great season so far and he's been very important to us," said the Hearts head coach.
"He now has a great target to go for with the forthcoming World Cup."
The on-loan Marseille midfielder has scored 16 times for the Tynecastle club this season.
A delighted Skacel said: "It is a positive step as the Czech squad is very strong.
"I am not thinking as far ahead as the World Cup at this stage as my first priority remains with Hearts and I want to focus on bringing success to the club."
Elliot's latest goal, in Saturday's 3-0 win over Motherwell, was quickly followed by a call to the Scotland Under-21 squad for the friendly against Iceland on 28 February.
Rix added: "Calum's call up is thoroughly deserved, but he appreciates that this is just a start and he knows he'll need to keep working hard."
"It demonstrates that we have an excellent youth structure behind the scenes."
