ALBION boss Chris Hughton has “mixed feelings” about Jiri Skalak’s involvement in the Euros.

The Czech Republic winger’s first pre-season with the Seagulls will be shortened if his country progress from the group stages of the finals in France.

The Albion players report back for pre-season training on June 27.

Their return clashes with the last 16 stage of the Euros, when the Czech Republic are potential opponents for England.

Hughton told The Argus: “That could be a problem. The further they go in the tournament will affect how much of a pre-season he has with us.

“He took a little while to get going but has been excellent for us. I’ve no doubt he would benefit from a really good, full pre-season with us.

“You have mixed feelings. I’d like to have him back as early as possible but, on the other hand, he will also benefit from the Czech Republic doing well.

“It will be a great experience for him. He is going into the tournament in good form in the period of time he has been with us.

“At 23 years of age to be going to a Championship with your nation is a wonderful thing.”

Defending champions Spain are the opening opponents for the Czech Republic in Toulouse next Monday in a group also containing Croatia and Turkey.

Skalak’s chances of featuring in the last 16 have been increased by the expansion of the tournament which allows spots for the four best third-placed teams from six groups.