Czech Republic officials have moved to quash rumours suggesting Milan Baros is about to leave the squad after being told he has no hope of playing in the World Cup finals.

A foot injury meant the Aston Villa striker had to watch the Czech's Group E victory against the USA from the bench and team physiotherapist Karel Malis was subsequently quoted as saying: "The hope is gone, Baros is definitely lost and will go home."

However, team doctor Petr Krejci is not prepared to give up on Baros yet, even though the player is pessimistic about his chances of featuring in the tournament.

"For normal mortals, treatment takes six to eight weeks, but we are at the World Cup," said Krejci.

"We have been trying to shorten the time of the treatment to have Milan available here, but on the other hand we do not want to damage the health of the player.

"We will try other things, other examinations. We will be wiser by the evening. We will take the decision on Monday after the game against Ghana.

"Milan sees the situation is not improving. He is nervous and disappointed. He is afraid of the upcoming days. The problem has affected his mental state."