Lovren issues Croatia warning

Dejan Lovren has warned he will not take part at Euro 2016 unless he is guaranteed a starting shirt by Croatia coach Ante Cacic.

The Liverpool defender has issued the ultimatum after falling out with Cacic during the Vatreni’s recent 1-1 draw with Hungary in March.

The 26-year-old was accused of not warming up properly prior to the match at the Groupama Arena, with Cacic revealing after the game the central defender had taken a step backwards with regard to his chances of playing at Euro 2016.

Lovren has responded to that criticism by saying he will only travel to this summer’s European Championship if he is assured of a place in the starting line-up.

He said: “I will not apologise, I will either travel to France as a starting player or I am not going.”

The former Southampton player ended up being an unused substitute in Budapest and he has now revealed he was snubbed despite being told he would play the second half of the Euro 2016 warm-up match.

He added: “I was told I would play the second half in Budapest. I was ready and also, the coach said we will all get a chance. And I didn’t.”

Croatia have been drawn in Group D for Euro 2016 where they will take on reigning champions Spain, Turkey and the Czech Republic.

Cacic’s side are available at 4.00 to finish top of the group, while they are on offer at 1.40 to qualify for the knockout stages.