Serbia coach Sinisa Mihajlovic has axed Adem Ljajic from his squad for refusing to sing the national anthem.
The Fiorentina attacker remained silent while 'God of Justice' was played before Saturday's friendly against Spain at the AFG Arena in St. Gallen, Switzerland.
“Ljajic has been sent home from the team's European tour and the decision is based on coach Sinisa Mihajlovic's rule book, stipulating a code of conduct which Ljajic has breached,” the Serbian Football Federation stated on Monday.
“Ljajic has told Mihajlovic he refused to sing the national anthem out of personal beliefs and that there would be no change in his position regarding the matter.
“The player will only be allowed to return to the national team if he changes his attitude and officially notifies Mihajlovic that he has done so.”
Ljajic, who has been capped seven times by Serbia, was attacked by former Fiorentina coach Delio Rossi earlier in May after reacting sarcastically to his substitution during the first half of the Viola's Serie A clash with Novara at the Stadio Artemio Franchi. Rossi was promptly sacked by the club.
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