ZLATKO DALIC has expressed his frustration at the injury that will keep Rangers defender Borna Barisic out of Croatia's Hampden clash with the Czech Republic.

The left-back was missing from the side that lost to England on matchday one as Raheem Sterling netted the only goal of the game to give the Three Lions a 1-0 victory at Wembley.

Barisic has not travelled with Dalic's squad for the second Group D clash on Friday evening as Croatia look to get off and running in the section and give their qualification hopes a timely boost.

Glasgow Times: Borna Barisic

The 28-year-old may yet return to Glasgow with his national side, however, and he could be in contention for the potentially decisive meeting with Scotland next week.

Barisic was a hugely influential figure for Steven Gerrard's side throughout their unbeaten run to the Premiership title and Dalic is disappointed to be denied the services of one of his key men.

Dalic said: “Yes, Borna is unfortunately out of the team because he is injured and that is a really great pity for the Croatian team.

“He has had a very great season with Rangers. He was in great condition but since he came to train and prepare himself, he managed to injure himself and unfortunately he has not been able to get back in the greatest form.

“That is why we have left him home, so that he can work on trying to prepare as well as possible for the next game.

“We expect him. We need him. But, at this moment, we have to play without him and we are very sorry for that.

Glasgow Times: Borna Barisic

“He has had a very good season, he has had a very good performance and that is a great thing for us.

“We have to give this position to another player. If one player is not 100 per cent ready then we cannot use them and we cannot put them in.”