Slovakia coach Pavel Hapal spoke about captain Marek Hamsik and Inter defender Milan Skriniar when speaking to gathered reporters in a press conference yesterday. His words were noted by Slovakian media outlet Sport.sk.

“I think Hamsik is a great legend, a player who has always done his best for the team. Only his presence is important. Moreover, he is someone who always wants to wear these colors. He is an example for younger players and can bring balance to the locker room.

“He is a very important player and I certainly do not think that someone will take possession of Marek’s crown anytime soon.”

He highlighted how Inter defender Milan Skriniar could be the player to replace Hamsik as the leader in the Slovakia squad.

“Of course, in the coming years we expect, for example, that a player like Milan Skriniar, who has the leadership skills, to one day replace him. Certainly not now.”

The 25-year-old Skriniar, who is contracted to the Nerazzurri until 2023, was rumored to be leaving the Milanese club this summer, with Premier League side Tottenham interested in acquiring the player.

Spurs failed to match Inter’s requests and so the Slovakian remained at the club. He struggled to adapt to coach Antonio Conte’s tactical system last season and disappointed in a back-three, and so will be working to impress this season in order to stay at the club.

Skriniar made 42 appearances across all competitions last season, for a total of 3399 minutes. In that time, he provided two assists and helped the team keep 12 clean sheets.