Xhaka, Embolo can return to Swiss squad after fake COVID docs affair

GENEVA, Switzerland — Switzerland captain Granit Xhaka and striker Breel Embolo are available for selection again for next month’s Nations League matches after being sanctioned for using forged COVID-19 certificates during the pandemic, the Swiss FA said Tuesday. The pair were dropped and missed the first four Nations League games, in September and October. Sunderland midfielder Xhaka, 34, who holds a Swiss record 152 caps, admitted to using a forged vaccine certificate to avoid mandatory jabs during the Covid crisis. Atlanta United forward Embolo, 29, similarly acknowledged that a penal order against him concerned fake COVID certificates.

“The Swiss Football Association (SFV) will once again consider Granit Xhaka and Breel Embolo for the national team, beginning with the Nations League matches in November,” it said in a statement. “The SFV has thoroughly examined both cases and has concluded that the players’ return is justifiable given the completion of legal proceedings and the sporting consequences incurred [having missed four international matches]. ” National team director Pierluigi Tami said: “We are convinced that a return to the national team in November is both responsible and the right course of action. ” Switzerland coach Murat Yakin, his staff and the players’ council unanimously decided that Xhaka will remain the captain. Switzerland are top of Group B1 in the Nations League, with four straight wins so far. Yakin will announce his squad for the final two Nations League group matches on November 5. Xhaka…