Japan Coach Says Door Open for Nakata Return

Japan coach Ivica Osim said that the international door was still open should former captain Hidetoshi Nakata return to the game.

Japan coach Ivica Osim said on Thursday that the international door was still open should former captain Hidetoshi Nakata return to the game.

Nakata retired following the 2006 World Cup but the 30-year-old is set to play for a World XI against China in Hong Kong on July 1, his second exhibition game in quick succession.

"I don't know why Nakata quit," Osim told reporters. "Obviously it was linked to the disappointment of the World Cup. But I would keep the door open for him."

Nakata made the last of his 77 appearances for Japan in the 4-1 defeat by Brazil in Germany. He collapsed in tears after the game and within minutes announced his retirement from football.

"Nakata is a star," said Osim. "He's a big name and that's his living. Why put that at risk? He played in three World Cups but perhaps didn't want his career to slide any further."

Osim added: "He played for Roma but then he went to less well-known clubs in Italy. After he went to England, he did the Japanese thing and stopped while still at a high level."

Nakata returned to the pitch in a charity match hosted by Luis Figo in Lisbon earlier this month and has been linked with other games, prompting rumours of a possible comeback.

Osim said Nakata's return would be a boost for Japanese football but insisted the former Bolton Wanderers midfielder would have to fight for his place.

"I wouldn't pick him simply for his name," said the 66-year-old Bosnian, whose Japan side begin their quest for a third straight Asian Cup title in Vietnam next month.

"He would have to earn his place. Things do change in football but I think I would keep the door open a little for Nakata."