Europe's governing body UEFA said on Monday that they would have no problems if Turkey fielded one of their goalkeepers upfront at Euro 2008. Turkish coach Fatih Terim's squad has been decimated by injuries and suspensions and he could potentially have just 14 players, including two goalkeepers, available for Wednesday's semi-final clash against Germany.
Terim had earlier said that he might be forced to use third-choice goalkeeper Tolgan Zengin outside.
"He could come on towards the end as a sub as last man in defence or as centre forward."
UEFA official William Gaillard told a press briefing on Monday that the organization had no problems if Terim wanted to use a goalkeeper as an outfielder.
"A player can play in any position. In fact, Turkey used striker Tuncay Sanli in goal against the Czech Republic after Volkan Demirel had been sent off."
Turkey will be without Tuncay Sanli, Arda Turan, Volkan Demirel and Emre Asik who are suspended, while Emre Gungor and Nihat Kahveci will not be available because of an injury.
Several other players were also ruled out of the quarter-final against Croatia through injury and there must be some doubts about the availability of Servet Cetin, Emre Belozoglu, Tumer Metin and Ayhan Akman for the semi-final clash.
UEFA had earlier said that Turkey would not be allowed to call up any replacements.
"You can't replace any players after the first game of the tournament has been played," Gaillard said.
Source:Wires
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