Ukrainian PM urges bosses to let staff watch match

KIEV, May 31: Ukraine's prime minister has urged bosses to adjust the working day or set up television sets so staff can watch the national side open their World Cup campaign against Spain on June 14.

''On June 14 at 4 p.m. we can expect an epidemic of unknown diseases. People will call in sick en masse,'' Yuri Yekhanurov told a cabinet meeting today.

''We recommend all administrators adjust the working day by starting earlier or installing television sets where possible.

Do what you can to make it possible for people to watch soccer.'' Ukraine are making their first appearance in the World Cup finals, which begin on June 9.

They are drawn in Group H with Spain, Tunisia and Saudi Arabia.

Coach Oleh Blokhin has set his team's minimum target as reaching the tournament's second round.

Reuters