Can Kaebi avoid putting his foot in his mouth?

Hossein Kaebi must be in a funny position these days. The Team Melli defender played a few unhappy months for Coach Afshin Ghotbi in Perspolis FC. He then left Perspolis to play for Saipa under then coach Ali Daei, who later became Team Melli coach.

After his move, the little defender made a few ill advised comments about Ghotbi. When Ghotbi got the Team Melli job, many in the media wondered if Kaebi would get the call, but Ghotbi proved to be a able to take the high road and Kaebi was included on Ghotbi’s first list.

Yesterday in a news conference Kaebi told reporters that the training was going really well and the team’s preparations are on schedule. However, a few of his comments could have been interpreted as somewhat controversial.

“I believe we need to have a more relaxed environment, and everyone must help us achieve this. I assure you that we can qualify for the World Cup”, said Kaebi.

When asked about his thoughts on the new coach, Kaebi replied, “It is still too soon to for us to judge him. I have of course worked with him in the past and am somewhat familiar with his approach. I believe he and his staff have a good preparations planned for the team.”