Ilievski selects fresh pair

F.Y.R. Macedonia coach Nikola Ilievski has named two newcomers in his squad for next Wednesday's international friendly in Skopje against Israel.

New boys
FK Sloga Jugomagnat striker Ardian Nuhii and NK Varteks midfield player Iljami Halimi, both of whom are 24, have been drafted in for the first time.

Serie C commitment
The main issue for Ilievski to contend with surrounds Goran Pandev and Ace Stojkov, who play for Italian Serie C side Spezia Calcio, but could be forced to stay with their clubs.

Spezia veto
"I've got information that Spezia are not prepared to release Pandev and Stojkov because they are needed in Serie C,” Ilievski said. "I will insist that they come but, if they don't, I won't call up any more players."

Stojanowski out
Milan Stojanowski has been dropped after falling out with Ilievski following the 2-2 draw in last month's UEFA EURO 2004™ qualifier against England, while Miroslav Vajs and Dragan Nacevski are ruled out.

F.Y.R. Macedonia squad
Milosevski, Nikoloski, Sedloski, Igor Mitreski, Grncarov,  Vasoski, Kumbev, Popov, Ignatov, Petrov, Sumolikoski, Aleksandar Mitreski, Trajanov, Grozdanovski, Sakiri, Halimi, Masev, Hristov, Toleski, Pandev, Stojkov, Nuhii.