Croatia skipper leaves for father's funeral

Skipper Darijo Srna has left the Croatia squad following the death of his father.

It is not known if the 34-year-old, who turned in a fine performance against Turkey on Sunday, would return for the remaining two Group D matches (Czech Republic on Friday and holders Spain on June 21).

REUTERS

Player's patriotism is really hair-raising

Players show their patriotism by kissing the team badge on their jerseys or bowing to fans.

Crotia midfielder Ivan Perisic has taken it a step further. He appeared for the Turkey match on Sunday with his squad number and the map of his country cut into his hair, reported the Daily Mail.

Robson-Kanu's future prospects in doubt

Hal Robson-Kanu was hailed as a hero after he scored Wales' winner in their 2-1 win over Slovakia on Friday, but his future is still far from certain.

The striker, 27, has been with English club Reading for the past 12 years, but he does not have a contract for the new season, reported The Daily Star.

German FA honours 1998 hooligans' victim

The German FA on Sunday honoured a former policeman, who was brutally attacked by German hooligans at the 1998 World Cup in Lens, France.

Daniel Nivel, 61, was the chief guest for Germany's 2-0 Group C win over Ukraine in Lille, reported ESPN. He never fully recovered from being in a coma for weeks with head injuries.

Temporary flight of fancy for Lafferty

Northern Ireland fans departing to watch Sunday's opener against Poland found the airport had been temporarily renamed Kyle Lafferty Belfast City Airport, reported the Daily Mail.

It is named after George Best, but to mark the country's first major international tournament game in 30 years, the honour was bestowed upon striker Lafferty.