Smicer misses out on French trip

Last updated : 19 February 2003 By Chris Maxwell
Smicer sustained the injury while on international duty with the Czech Republic. The injury is also expected to keep the 29 year-old out of contention for Sunday's away match at Birmingham.

Gerard Houllier, who confirmed Smicer's absence from the travelling squad, revealed that the player could still be fit for the Worthington Cup final.

Houllier said: "It's too early to say whether Smicer will be fit to play in the Cup final next week, but we are hopeful.

"Otherwise we are in good shape as far as injuries are concerned."