 Petkovic did not play a single game in the qualification campaign |
Under-pressure Serbia and Montenegro defender Dusan Petkovic has pulled out of his country's World Cup squad. The 32-year-old was called into the squad by his father and coach Ilija Petkovic, which sparked a media outcry over his inclusion.
He said: "The pressure was too strong for me, my father and my team-mates. I don't want to be part of that and I won't travel to Germany."
He was called up as a replacement for injured Lecce striker Mirko Vucinic.
Serbo-Montenegrin Football Association president Tomislav Karadzic said: "It is true, Dusan left after Monday's talks.
"He confirmed that he is under huge pressure and he said he couldn't see himself at the World Cup in such circumstances.
"Dusan met with the other players, explained his decision and wished them all the best in Germany.
"His decision is final, we will have to find a replacement soon as the World Cup is starting in three days.
"Fortunately for us, our national team is in good shape and is prepared for the biggest competition of all."
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