Hamšík hopes finals are 'good advert' for Slovakia

Midfielder Marek Hamšík hopes that hosting the UEFA European Under-17 Championship, which begins on Sunday, will be a "good advertisement for Slovak football".

Hamšík began his career in the Slovakia youth set-up and has gone on to international recognition as a key player for both SSC Napoli and his country. "I'm proud that I'm part of the national team, that I represent my country, and I always try to make my country proud," said the 25-year-old. "I'm Slovak, so I'm trying to show others as much as I can about how great Slovakia can be. When I'm in Slovakia I try to give everything to the Slovak team."

Slovakia will be in the shop window this month, with some of Europe's finest young talent visiting for the U17 final tournament between 5 and 17 May. "All these things are important steps to becoming a good, quality player. Tournaments like this can only help," added Hamšík, now in his sixth season with Napoli. "I'm glad Slovakia will be hosting the tournament, which could be a good advertisement for Slovak football. I hope our guys will do well."

View the video player above for the full Hamšík interview.