Fiji soccer coach Juan Carlos Buzzetti is a concerned man today following a training run in Nadi after four key players in his squad were ruled out of the 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifier against New Zealand due to injuries.
Ba duo Josaia Bukalidi and Avinesh Warran Swamy alongside Star Labasa defender Taniela Waqa and Navua’s Rajneel Chand are all carrying injuries sustained during the recent IDC at Govind Park.
With time running out for the host nation in terms of preparation for the match, the national mentor has opted to draft in four players from his Fiji U20 squad to cover for the injured quartet.
“The players haven’t recovered fully from their injuries therefore we saw it fit to let them recover and decided to bring in some U-20 reps for cover, he said.
“Bukalidi will still remain in camp and his final confirmation will come later this week when he undergoes a final medical examination.
Despite the injuries, Buzzetti is confident of Fiji’s chances in the match against the Oceania giants and believes the Fijians have the flair to topple the Whites.
“We will not underestimate them although they have named a new team and will go all attacking from the opening whistle as we have nothing to lose in the match.
“I only want to urge all soccer fans to come out in numbers and support the players as they represent the nation and a win in the fixture will certainly will be a boost for football entering into the new season” Buzzetti added.
Meanwhile, Auckland City midfielder Salesh Kumar will jet into the county on Tuesday night and will feature in the match on Wednesday and fly out after the match due to his club commitments.
Waitakere United striker Roy Krishna who still remains in Fiji due to visa problems is in camp and will be a sure starter in the match.
The Fiji-New Zealand All Whites match will kick off at 6pm next Wednesday at Churchill Park in Lautoka.
Story provided by Fijilive. For more visit www.fijilive.com/sports/