A photo showing Arda Turan, captain of Turkey's National Football Team, reluctant to join a team photoshoot during the last training session ahead of Tuesday's EURO 2016 Group D match against Czech Republic emerged as proof of a drift between Turan and Coach Fatih Terim.
Turan was criticized and booed by Turkish fans during Friday's match against Spain, which Turkey lost 3-0. Following the match, the drift between Turan and Terim resurfaced, with sports commentators describing the issue as one of the ongoing disturbances within the team.
Moreover, striker Burak Yılmaz was absent from the photoshoot. Turkish sports media outlets reported that Yılmaz will not be included on the starting 18 in tonight's game.
Turkey have lost their first two Euro 2016 games with coach Fatih Terim, who has been under increasing pressure, accusing his team of giving up. Nevertheless, victory against the Czech Republic on Tuesday means they will snatch third spot.
Despite decent link-up play in the 1-0 defeat to Croatia and the 3-0 reverse against champions Spain, Turkey never really came close to scoring.
That must change on Tuesday or Turkey are going out. The Czechs have one point so only a win will do for Turkey, and even that might not be enough with only the four best third-placed teams making the last 16.
"I saw a team that I don't like, one that gives up and just accepts defeat. Those who know my footballing and coaching career, my attitude and personality, will know that I have no business with those who just give up," Terim said.
"I can't come to terms with it and I apologize on behalf of myself and the team to everyone."
Turkey actually played some nice football in the second half against already qualified Spain in Nice but by then it was too late and their finishing - especially from striker Burak Yılmaz - left much to be desired.
Turkish fans are nothing if not passionate and Terim said he now needs them more than ever.
"Please keep up that support for the match against the Czech Republic. Please don't think that I will accept results like this or any other day," he said after the Spain defeat.
