Josip Simunic & Ivica Krizanac Axed From Croatia Squad Ahead Of Kazakhstan Clash

Croatia national coach Slaven Bilic has axed Josip Simunic and Ivica Krizanac from the squad for the World Cup qualifier against Kazakhstan on October 14 in Astana.

Bilic sent both players home on Sunday, but refused to comment about the reasons for their dismissal. The Croatian media has reported the reason might be that the players returned drunk to the team hotel on Friday night.

"They crossed the line of rules we set up at the beginning," Bilic told a press conference. "I made my decision and ejected them from the team. I do not want to talk about the reasons or what they did. It was nothing we could not hide, but I did not want to do so. I am sorry it happened, but my decision is the only right one."

Additionally, Bilic warned two more players that their behaviour was unacceptable. Anas Sharbini and Nikica Jelavic both disrespected the team's rules and have been threatened with expulsion if they break them again.

Croatia's World Cup is effectively over. They need to win on Wednesday to stand a chance of making the play-offs, though Andorra need to claim at least a point from Ukraine for Bilic's side to have hope.

Stefan Coerts, Goal.com

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