Czechoslovakia's foreign player, Akpembe, has announced his retirement from international football following a season-ending knee injury.
The 26-year-old forward had been in excellent form for the Czech Republic during the 2018-2019 season, scoring 17 goals and assisting on five others in all competitions. He was named the club's top scorer in both the domestic league and the UEFA Champions League group stage.
However, after suffering a setback in his recovery, Akpembe decided to take a break from professional football this season. He said that he felt it would be best to rest his body and allow it to heal before returning to action.
His decision comes at a crucial time for the Czech Republic, as they look to qualify for the UEFA Euro 2020 tournament. The country is currently ranked third in the world, but they need to win their remaining four matches in order to progress through to the knockout stages.
Akpembe's absence will undoubtedly be a blow to the team, but he will be missed by fans and teammates alike. His contributions to the national team have been invaluable, and his departure will leave a void in the squad.
In conclusion, Akpembe's retirement is a significant loss for the Czech Republic and the club. However, with the team's current situation, there may not be enough time to find a replacement for him. As such, the focus will now shift towards finding a replacement who can step into his shoes and help the team reach their full potential.