Bielsa defends Argentina record（2004.5.5）

pepo

by Francisco Acedo
EXCLUSIVE
Argentina boss Marcelo Bielsa has told skysports.com that he is happy with his side's progression under his charge, but is aware of the weight of expectation from fans.
The South Americans recently beat Morocco 1-0 in a friendly but, despite the success, there were renewed attacks on Bielsa for his 'defensive' style of play.

The coach is undeterred by the criticism, however, and feels his team is on the right track for the 2006 World Cup finals in Germany.

"Nowadays it is more important to win than play good football," Bielsa stated. "Fans demand good results and playing well doesn't count for anything if you lose.

"Being manager of Argentina is a very complicated task for any coach. The fans demand everything and the tension is terrible when the results are not good.

"Things are currently going very well for the 2006 World Cup in Germany but there is still a long way to go.

"Argentina should always be at the finals and if we didn't make it, it would be a huge failure.

"The use of the ball of the Argentina team is amongst the best in the world, if we dominate in midfield then very few teams in the world could beat us."

Bielsa went on to defend his decision not to include Barcelona star Javier Saviola as a regular in his side, insisting that the diminutive hit-man still had time to establish himself on the internacional stage.

"Saviola is a useful member of the team and his moment will come," he continued.

"I don't understand those who say I am being boring when I don't play him.

"Every player must take advantage of his opportunities, and Javier will have his chance. He is still young."

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