Frei insists Swiss can progress without him

By Mark Ledsom

FEUSISBERG, Switzerland (Reuters) - Injured Switzerland captain Alex Frei said on Monday that his team were strong enough to progress at Euro 2008 without him.

"My dream is destroyed but the team's dream goes on," said Frei, who limped out of Saturday's opening 1-0 defeat against Czech Republic in tears after partially rupturing a knee ligament in a collision with Czech defender Zdenek Grygera.

With just two out-and-out strikers remaining in the squad following Frei's injury and the pre-tournament loss of in-form Twente Enschede striker Blaise Nkufo, the Swiss face a potentially decisive Group A match against Turkey on Wednesday.

The co-hosts then have an even tougher looking fixture in their final group stage game against Portugal on Sunday.

"Of course, it will be difficult after losing our first match but our team is made up of champion athletes and I know that they will do all they can to make sure the dream is still alive after Wednesday," said Frei.

"We played very well against Czech Republic and our team is still in contention and still very strong mentally. I am convinced they will continue to play well without me."

Frei, 28, was surrounded by photographers as he entered Monday's news conference, walking on crutches and wearing a red 'We are Switzerland' T-shirt.

Team doctors have said his injury will keep the Borussia Dortmund striker out of action for about six weeks.