Iran: Kia Has No Problems With Coach Daei

GOAL - Mehdi Mahdavikia, back in the Iran squad to face North Korea in their 2010 World Cup qualifier on Wednesday, insists that there have been no personal problems between him and Iran boss Ali Daei.

The winger has not played for Team Melli for the past few months due to injuries, but there have been rumors that the Frankfurt man was having personal problems with the national team manager Ali Daei.

However, Mahdavikia told Persianfootball.com that he and Daei had a good relationship.

“I've never had any problems with anyone in football and as you can see, I have been invited.”

Asked if he is having trouble making adjustments in a team managed by his former teammate, Mahdavikia said: “The status of a coach is entirely different than a player. I have a previous similar experience. Thomas Doll, the former coach of Hamburg, was my colleague for many years, but then he became my coach. I have no problem with this issue.”

“The team has become younger, I hope this team will qualify to the World Cup so that these players will progress.”

Iran drew 1-1 with Saudi Arabia in Riyadh last month in their opening round of the World Cup Qualifying Round and will be looking to get their first win of the campaign when they take on North Korea on Wednesday.