体坛英语新闻：Jagr ill, but flying to hockey world champs with Czech team

Prague, April 23 (Xinhua) -- Legendary ice hockey player Jaromir Jagr will fly to the world championship in Switzerland with the Czech national team despite illness.

    Jagr, 37, has had problems with a viral illness.

    "I felt really bad from Sunday, and very weak. But now it is finally slightly better," Jagr said.

    Czech coach Vladimir Ruzicka said he hopes Jagr would be able to play.

    The champs will open on Friday, April 24 and the Czechs play their first game on Saturday.

    Jagr already played with the Czech team at the recent Euro Hockey Tour (EHT) tournament in Liberec, north Bohemia.

    It is good news for Ruzicka that Montreal Canadiens lost its series against Boston Bruins 0-4 in the NHL playoff first round because it means Tomas Plekanec will come to Switzerland.

    Plekanec played at the last three championships, always being one of the best Czech players. He was named the second best Czech hockey player last year, after Jagr.

    Ruzicka will also talk to Roman Hamrlik from Montreal who might also join the Czech team.

    On the other hand, defender Angel Krstev will not travel to the champs because of broken ribs.