Grygera bounces back

Return to favour
The AFC Ajax right-back bore the brunt of criticism for his side's poor start against the Netherlands ten days ago when he was substituted after only 25 minutes. But he returned to form as a substitute in the quarter-final win against Denmark and is expected to keep his place because the man he replaced that day, Martin Jiránek, has not recovered from a thigh injury.

'Made mistakes'
The 24-year-old stayed positive despite the setback and now hopes to make the most of his chance. "I didn't think the championship was over for me, although it was very unpleasant to be out of the lineup," Grygera said. "I was angry at first, but the coach has the right to say what he thinks and I must admit I made mistakes."

Supporting role
The fact that the Czech Republic went on to win made his own misfortune easier to stomach, but because Grygera had been a regular during qualifying, life on the substitutes' bench was an even harder adjustment to make.

'Worse things'
Grygera, however, rose to the challenge, impressing with his attitude. "It was not doomsday for me," he said. "There are worse things in life - injury for instance." Grygera knows what he is talking about, after suffering a back problem last season then almost missing UEFA EURO 2004™ for health reasons.

'Prayed to survive'
"I didn't feel I was snubbed at all," he added. "I was ready to help even if it was only for a couple of minutes." After sitting out the Germany game, his chance came against Denmark when Jiránek limped off just before half-time. "It was not easy as I came on without warming up," Grygera said. "I prayed to survive the remaining moments before the break, but the second half passed without any problems."

Back in favour
With his confidence restored, Grygera finds himself back in favour at just the right time. "It's a little sad to be back only because of injury to my friend, but that's life," Grygera said. "I am ready to do my best again."

Fond memories
Grygera even has fond memories of playing Greece. "We played against them at the [UEFA] European Under-21 Championship in 2002," he said. "I scored a penalty and we reached the final after a 1-1 draw." With the sun shining on the defender again, might that be a lucky omen?