Tehran.
After Team Melli first phase camp was completed today in Azadi Sport complex, the squad is preparing itself to fly to Muscat Oman , for the friendly game against Oman National Team. In addition to the training camp in Tehran , the preparation program for the important encounters in June in the quest for qualification to the FIFA World Cup Brazil 2014 , includes a match against Oman , set up of camp in Dubai , UAE and an additional friendly during this camp before flying to Qatar for the match. On this occasion, Carlos Queiroz gave an update on the status of the team and the players.
“We have successfully completed the first phase of the training camp. I am quite satisfied with the work carried out and I can say with confidence that the players who took part in this camp were the best available players (…) who have worked very well and are ready to fight for their country.”
He also said that ” there is no injury to report as all players are in a fine condition, however , we will not be taking Mohammad Reza Khalatbary with us to Oman. This player needs rest and we have decided to give him the rest he requires. In the second phase , I hope that we get all of our players in the camp”
Queiroz added “ I am sure you observed the commitment of all the players in this camp. Their work ethics and discipline was exemplary and I am proud of that. I believe that I will be successful with this squad.”
Asked about the latest status with the friendly match against Iraq, he responded by saying that “we are doing our utmost best to have a friendly game before the match against Qatar. This match will definitely be held in Dubai and behind closed doors (…). This was not our choice , but that is the reality we are faced with. The federation tried its best but for sure the match will be held in Dubai behind closed doors.”
In regard to Mansourian, Queiroz said that “Alireza Mansourian is the coach of the U22 team and he is part of the Team Melli technical team. He is here in the camp to learn. One of my duties here in Iran is also educational and preparing national cadres of coaches for Team Melli. Mansourian , like Markar Aghajanian are part of this team and I do hope that both become successful coaches in the near future.”
Team Melli coach also commented on the status of the Team’s jersey. He has previously complained about the quality of the uniforms and jerseys provided by uhlsport. The German sports goods manufacturer is the supplier of a Team Melli full range of equipment and sportswear. Queiroz said ” if the supplier fails to honor its contractual obligation , like it has done several teams previously , then we have an alternative solution. I promise you that whatever happens , we will show up in the proper kit in white color against Qatar.”
On the injury of Reza Ghoochanejad while playing a match in the Belgian League, Queiroz said that it was a pulled muscle and nothing too serious to get concerned about. He also said that Ando Teymourian is recovering from his injury in Qatar and already started training. Queiroz is hopeful to have Ando in the camp by the 27th of May.