BORNA Barisic admits he’s not fit enough after losing his place at Rangers, but insists he’s ready to mark Gareth Bale for Croatia.
The Ibrox left-back played for his country at the weekend as they romped to a 5-0 win over local side NK Omis, to mark their 100th anniversary.
But he was missing for Rangers for two months until the last game of the season where he played in their 2-1 defeat at Kilmarnock.
He will come up against Real Madrid superstar Bale on Saturday in a Euro 2020 qualifier at his old club, Osijek.
Rangers boss Steven Gerrard complained the last time Barisic went on international duty because he returned injured.
But Barisic insisted that has been settled, but admitted he’s not yet match fit
He explained: “I had a misunderstanding with Rangers after the injury, but the matter has been resolved now.
“Unfortunately, because I have not been playing much, I am not at the desired fitness level just now.
“I will need extensive training, but I have plenty of experience to come through this.
“I will be up against Gareth Bale and that should be a really good battle. But it’s important we don’t just concentrate on him - Wales have got plenty of good players as well as him.
“Playing at Osijek again will be a dream for me. There will be an incredible atmosphere and the match is sold out.”
Rangers winger Eros Grezda, who played alongside Barisic at Osijek, has walked out of the Albania squad due to ‘personal reasons’ just days after his Ibrox future was put in doubt.
The 24-year-old has made just seven league starts since his £2 million move, with manager Steven Gerrard reportedly far from happy at his efforts this season.
Grezda posted a message on a social media account that stated: “I’m sorry to inform you that I will not be ready to help the national team in the next two games.”
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