The Euro 2008 damp-Ionships

Jun 15 2008 By Mark Guidi

DAVID TAYLOR reckons Euro 2008 has been running like clockwork so far but admits dreadful weather could still rain on the parade.

The UEFA general secretary thinks the tournament has been a huge success even though the rain has rarely stopped in Switzerland and Austria.

Last week's Group A clash between Switzerland and Turkey was played out in farcical conditions and was minutes away from being abandoned due to a waterlogged pitch.

The surface at Basle's St Jakob-Park stadium hasn't recovered and UEFA chiefs will consider ripping it up before Thursday's quarter-final.

But Taylor hopes conditions improve and stop the finals becoming a washout.

The former SFA chief executive said: "The tournament has been a big success.

"The football has been good and there has been excitement. There has also been respect shown towards the match officials and that is encouraging.

"The fans have enjoyed it and by the end of the tournament more than four million should have watched games in our fanzones.

"The only disappointment has been the weather. It has rained every day and been cold.

"Unfortunately it has made an impact on the tournament and we may have to look at laying down a new surface in Basle for the quarter-final.

"There is a game on the pitch on Sunday and we have asked Portugal and Switzerland not to train on it.

"Ideally the surface will be fine but if we have to relay it thenwe will, although it will be a bit of a challenge to do it all in three or four days."

Taylor's only other regret is that Scotland aren't here for the party. He said: "We could have performed well. There are a few Scots fans out here and always a few kilts to be seen.

"My son James is out for a few games and is wearing my kilt. He is here for a holiday and to enjoy the atmosphere.

"I have attended most of the games. There is a fair bit of travelling involved and sometimes a few of us have to use the private jet."

These finals are the first under new UEFA President Michel Platini who inspired France to glory at Euro 84.

Taylor has been impressed with the Frenchman's commitment and said: "Michel has worked hard and is enjoying seeing it all unfold.

"He is a respected figure and still gets recognised. Michel asked me the other day: 'When does being recognised everywhere wear off?' "He is not a businessman and is not an administrator. If he asks for change it will always be with football in mind."

The biggest controversy Taylor has faced so far at Euro 2008 was Holland's first goal against Italy last Monday.

Ruud van Nistelrooy looked offside but the goal was allowed to stand because Christian Panucci - who was behind the goal-line injured - played him onside under FIFA rules.

Taylor said: "I'm glad the decision has received publicity as it leaves everyone in no doubt what the rule is.

"But imagine if it had happened in an Old Firm game!"