ISRAEL boss Willi Ruttensteiner believes the Covid-19 crisis presents an opportunity for a new generation of international stars to shine.
Ruttensteiner is without Dan Bitton, Taleb Tawatha and Dor Peretz due to positive tests, while Maccabi Tel Aviv duo Yonatan Cohen and Avi Rikan are absent after showing symptoms.
To add to his woes, Celtic star Nir Bitton is also out injured.
That has forced Ruttensteiner to call upon FIVE uncapped players and a further six who have represented their country 10 or fewer times for the crunch European Championships playoff against Scotland.
However, Ruttensteiner has urged a new-look squad to embrace their unexpected shot at glory.
“I am very sad that Dor Peretz and Taleb Twataha cannot be part of the group and contribute as they have before, but we must adapt.
“The most important thing is they be healthy.
“Meanwhile, we must be professionals and find alternatives.
“I think this can help Israel develop for the future. Young players will get a big chance.
“It is possible that young players will take advantage of this opportunity and grasp it with both hands.”
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