Fiji soccer coach Juan Carlos Buzzetti has called for more commitment from players chosen to represent the country.

His call comes after some senior players failed to attend training last week for the two matches against Vanuatu in the World Cup Qualifiers which resulted in Buzzetti opting for a young team in the first leg which Fiji won 2-0.

Former captain Peni Finau opted not to travel to Fiji for the matches despite receiving air tickets from the parent body in advance while Labasa midfielder Alvin Avinesh flew out to Australia to play in a tournament organized by the Fiji community there despite been named in the national squad.

Buzzetti also expressed disappointment with top choice national goalkeeper Simione Tamanisau who joined the camp on Thursday with an injury to his ligament sustained while playing rugby for his Police team last week.

“This is not on and I am calling on the parent body to take necessary action on the players that ignore our calls and have no pride for the nation.

“The players knew fully well they were named and yet they decided to take a casual approach thinking that the management will beg them to train or to join camp but this is not my policy no matter how good a player is,” Buzzetti said.

“I see all players as equal and only love to work with players that show dedication and commitment and are disciplined enough to learn and play football better.

“The squad I currently have is one of the best and I am really satisfied with the players as all are very hardworking and show a lot of promise and commitment.

“Take for example, Malakai Tiwa and Tuimasi Manuca, they both work at the Ba Town Council and wake up early to train from 6-7.30 am daily before getting ready to leave for work and spend more hours in the evening to cover up for the sessions they missed.

“They adjust football with employment pretty well and are very good examples of committed and dedicated players.

“Then there’s Avinesh Swamy, despite not been 100% fit to play due to his injured knee, he still gives in his best and does not give up easily and this is something I admire of these type of players.

“If all players start to have the same level of commitment and discipline then football in the country will certainly move in a much positive manner” added the Uruguayan native.

The Fiji team is currently in camp at the Dr Sahu Khan academy in Ba awaiting its second match against Vanuatu on Wednesday.

The Malakai Tiwa captained side leaves for Port Villa on Tuesday for the away match.

Fijilive

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