Capitals' Erat named to Czech Republic team

Washington Capitals forward Martin Erat has been named to the Czech Republic roster for the 2014 Sochi Olympics.

He takes the place of St. Louis Blues forward Vladimir Sobotka, who went on injured reserve this past weekend with a leg injury.

"We've counted with Vladimir Sobotka as a top two-way forward, he is extraordinary on defense," Czech Republic coach Alois Hadamczik said. "After he got injured, we had to find similar kind of a player and Martin Erat is best in defense among all candidates."

Erat has 21 points, all assists, in 48 games for the Washington Capitals this season.

"It's always nice to play for your national team, especially as a big tournament as Olympics are," said Erat, who will make his third Olympic appearance. "It's going to be nice to change scenarios for a while and hope [we] get something done there."

Erat had a goal and an assist in eight games at the 2006 Torino Games and one assist in five games at the 2010 Vancouver Games.

Erat has also represented the Czech Republic in multiple World Championships as well as the World Junior Championship during his international career.