Croatia Coach Niko Kovac hopes Luka Modric is available to play for his country in June after the Real Madrid midfielder’s season ended early through injury.
Modric was forced off against Malaga and diagnosed with a sprained knee, AS report, and is expected to be on the sidelines for the next six weeks.
He is unlikely to play again this season for his club but Kovac has told Croatian publication Sportske Novosti that he has spoken with Modric and would like him to be ready to play Italy on June 12.
Modric was previously injured against the Azzurri in a Euro 2016 qualifier and missed a significant chunk of the season. Kovac added that he would not force Modric back before he was ready.
“I spoke with Luka and wished him a speedy and happy recovery,” Kovac revealed.
“It’s certainly not easy. He’s injured again as he tried to pick up the pace of a proper game.
“We’ve seen in the last month how important he is for Madrid. Also we know what Luka represents for our team.
“Injuries are part of football. Modric is an excellent worker and will no doubt do the utmost, the great professional that he is.
“My hope is he can recover for the game against Italy. Of course, we will not force anything. Luka’s health is most important.”
