Hottiger stands by resolute defending
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Your support makes all the difference.Marc Hottiger, the Everton defender, returns to the Switzerland side confident they can cause further frustration for the Netherlands in their Group A meeting today. Suspended for the 1-1 draw against England, Hottiger looks certain to replace Sebastien Jeanneret, the young right- back who was given a difficult time by Steve McManaman until the Liverpool forward was substituted in the second half last Saturday.
Hottiger, who watched the Dutch fail to hit top form in the goalless draw against Scotland on Monday, said: "The way the Scots defended was very encouraging for us. The Dutch may be the most technically gifted team in the tournament but, if we can stop the early attacks like Scotland did, we have the chance to do the same as we did against England.
"Scotland had one or two chances despite the pressure they were under, but we have players capable of scoring goals. After the England result I think other teams will have to take us much more seriously now."
Hottiger insists he is unconcerned that the Swiss will face a Dutch team playing their pair of out-and-out wingers, with Peter Hoekstra likely to replace Gaston Taument and Jordi Cruyff switching to his more natural role on the right. "We know Holland will attack us but it is my plan to turn the winger. I want to push him as deep as possible and help give us the initiative," Hottiger said.
Artur Jorge, the Swiss coach, is again ready to leave Stephane Chapuisat, the Borussia Dortmund striker, on the bench, even though his display as a substitute against England helped rescue the match at Wembley. "It's possible he could start this time but many coaches would regard playing three attackers against Holland as stupid, "Jorge said.
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