31.05.2013, 11:59
Fahrudin Melić retires from Montenegro's national team

Bad news for country's national handball squad ahead of crucial EHF EURO 2014 qualification matches

Fahrudin Melić retires from Montenegro's national team

There is bad news for Montenegro's national handball team before the decisive two EHF EURO 2014 qualification matches against Germany (12 June in Podgorica) and Czech Republic (15 June in Brno).

One of Montenegro’s best players, Fahrudin Melić, decided to retire from the national team. His decision came unexpected, even though he had stated after the 2013 World Championship in Spain that he was contemplating the possibility to retire due to familly reasons.

However, a few days after Kastratović named the list of players for the matches against Germany and Czech Republic, Melić announced he will not play for Montenegro any longer.

"I will not play for the national team anymore, I informed coach Zoran Kastratović and this time it’s my final decision.

"I just felt it was time to dedicate more time to my familly and I believe that Montenegro have a lot of quality young players on the right wing. I wish Montenegro every success in the next two matches with Germany and the Czech Republic," Fahrudin Melić said.

Born in Prijepolje, Serbia, Fahrudin Melić decided to play for Montenegro five years ago and had not missed an event with the national team since. He was one of the best and most constant players in the national team. From next season onwards, he will play for Paris Saint-Germain.

Zoran Kastratović decided to replace Melić with Lovćen’s right wing Mirko Radović, who will make a pair on that position with Marko Lasica.

“It's a big loss for us. Melić is an exceptional player who in the past period has given a lot to our team. It would have meant a lot if he stayed to play the last two games, as we agreed, but what's done is done…,” Kastratović said.

Montenegro will gather on 3 June in Podgorica to begin preparations for the match against Germany.

TEXT: Saša Jončić / ts