Nikbakht-Vahedi’s knee problem

There is this fine left-footed player who plays for Esteghlal of Tehran. His name is Alireza Nikbakht-Vahedi. When in shape he has been a force for Team Melli. During most of the season his performance was below what was expected of him, but as of late he was showing signs of recovery when the injury hit. He has a knee problem that may keep him out of the World Cup.

True to form every freaking newspaper in Tehran is printing their own story on his situation and neither one tells you much! However, in an interview with Iran Pas News Agency (IPNA) he said that he will accompany the team. Apparently Coach Branko Ivankovic will include him in his 23 man WC roster.