Jan Kuchta
Sparta PrahaCF
--
Jan 8, 1997 (29)
Right
6'0"
176 lb
Training individually
Kuchta (ankle) was in individual training Sunday ahead of their World Cup opener against South Korea on Thursday, according to Denik Sport.
Analysis: Kuchta is still not nearing full fitness as Czechia nears its World Cup opener, as the forward was limited to individual training again on Sunday. Unfortunately, it now appears the opener could come too early, although he still has a few days to increase his workload. He is likely set for a bench option either way if he makes the opener, more of a rotational piece for the team.
On bench against Guatemala
Kuchta (ankle) was named on the bench for Thursday's 3-1 victory over Guatemala without featuring as the Czechia continue to manage his return to fitness carefully ahead of the World Cup opener against South Korea on June 11.
Analysis: Kuchta had been unable to participate in training as recently as Wednesday due to an ankle injury, making his inclusion in the matchday squad a step forward even if the coaching staff are not yet ready to risk him in a competitive environment. The forward is expected to be a rotational option for the Czechia rather than a guaranteed starter, and the staff will monitor his condition closely over the coming days to ensure he is fully available when the tournament gets underway.
Attends training, doesn't practice
Kuchta (ankle) was at training Wednesday but unable to participate, according to Denik Sports.
Analysis: Kuchta suffered an ankle injury in a friendly and is still not an option for his national team, as the forward was only able to watch practice Wednesday. This does leave some concerns for the forward, as the World Cup is only a week from starting, leaving a solid chance he could miss out if not healed soon. He is likely to only be a rotational player for the squad, so his absence would be a minor issue, although a change of players just ahead of starting play is never a good sign for any team.
Avoids fracture after ankle blow
Kuchta was forced to leave the field early in Sunday's international friendly against Kosovo due to an ankle issue, about which coach Miroslav Koubek said that "Kuchta had an ankle problem. He had an X-ray to see if there was anything broken and it shouldn't be anything serious", Spartanske Zpravy reports.
Analysis: Kuchta was looking to show himself as a viable option to enter the rotation with Patrik Schick and Mojmir Chytil in the No. 9 spot, but his outing was limited by the injury scare. The Sparta Prague striker is apparently dealing with a minor problem, but he might not see a lot of action, serving as a depth player even if he's fully fit for the World Cup opener versus South Korea. He has been a regular contributor for his club and could have a chance to gain more international experience if he's available, having previously scored three goals across 30 matches played for Czechia.
Select Player
Search and select a player to compare