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Tuesday, June 3, 2008

Soccer-Euro-Switzerland coach Kuhn seeks strength from setbacks



FEUSISBERG, Switzerland, June 3 (Reuters) - Switzerland coach Koebi Kuhn said his team would gain strength from the setbacks that have rocked their Euro 2008 preparations.

Kuhn, 64, resumed training with the squad at their base in central Switzerland on Tuesday, one day after his wife was taken to hospital following an epileptic attack.

The co-hosts have also been hit by injuries in the build-up, leading to the withdrawal of striker Blaise Nkufo, defender Steve von Bergen and reserve goalkeeper Fabio Coltorti.

Influential midfielder Tranquillo Barnetta is still not certain to play in the tournament's opening game against Czech Republic on Saturday after straining his ankle in training two weeks ago.

"I can assure you that we did not orchestrate any of these things but it's true that events like this do not just have negative results," Kuhn told a news conference.

"They also bring a sense of solidarity and standing together and that is certainly an important factor for our first match on Saturday. I think the injuries and everything else that has happened will give us even more strength.

"I am happy to be here after hearing good news about my wife's medical situation which is now under control. I can now focus fully on the team with my head, stomach and heart."

Swiss preparations were disrupted last week when striker Marco Streller said he would retire from international football after being repeatedly whistled and abused by his own fans

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