Nakamura recalled for Aussie World Cup qualifier

News
By published

TOKYO - Japan coach Takeshi Okada has recalled Celtic midfielder Shunsuke Nakamura in a strong squad for the home World Cup qualifier with Australia on February 11.

Brazilian-born defender Tulio also returns after a knee operation for the Yokohama clash against the Socceroos, who top Group One in the final round of Asian 2010 qualifiers.

Nakamura is expected to start, despite struggling with a groin strain, along with four other Europe-based players.

"It's a massive game against Australia," Japan's playmaker told Saturday's Japanese media. "We have to win it to avoid them opening a gap on us."

"Australia (29th) are above Japan (34th) in the FIFA rankings, they have more ability. We'll go in as the underdogs and have to throw everything at them."

Tulio's absence in the centre of defence would be a blow against a physical Australia side but the towering Urawa Reds player is likely to play, despite being less than fully fit.

"He's not at 100 percent but I reckon he can play," said Okada. "He's on a training programme to make sure he's ready for Australia."

Okada noted Australia's past ability to cause panic in Japan's defence at corners and free kicks.

"We desperately want to avoid giving away goals at set pieces," said the 52-year-old. "We don't want to get done by Australia like that. That's where we need to improve."

Saint Etienne midfielder Daisuke Matsui, Eintracht Frankfurt's Junichi Inamoto and Wolfsburg pair Makoto Hasebe and Yoshito Okubo were also included in Okada's 25-man squad.