Second String Won't Embarrass Us - Bilic

Bilic's Croatia sealed top spot in their group with a win over Germany, which ensures that even if they now lose to Poland and Germany beat Austria in the final round of games tonight, regardless of the scores, Croatia remain on top due to the head-to-head rule.

As such, many are expecting a second string of Croatians to take the field for the game against Poland, who would need to win by four clear goals and hope Austria-Germany ends in a draw to have any hope of qualifying.

"We are not crazy to risk the second yellows," admitted Bilic, before adding tonight's team will "have never before played together in an international game", but insisting, "I have no fear that they will embarrass us. I believe in this team, like I believe in all 23 players in the squad."

He also gave some insight into his take on management, since his charismatic and unique presence on the touchline has impressed the whole of Europe, not least when his side - already qualified for Euro 2008 - played as if their lives depended on it in their final qualifier against England, winning 3-2 at Wembley and denying the Three Lions a place in the tournament.

Bilic explained: "Vedran Corluka [the Manchester City defender] is so calm on the pitch and I think great. And then I think he's 22. And I try to remember what is it like at that age - you need someone, sometimes, to make you braver, give you motivation, and confidence. So the role of the manager is unbelievable."

Hans Schmidt, Goal.com