Iran head coach Carlos Queiroz is pinning the hopes of Team Melli at the FIFA 2014 World Cup in Brazil on his two promising stars Ashkan Dejagah and Reza Ghoochannejhad.
.
The Iranian side successfully booked their return to the world football extravaganza having missed out on the last edition at South Africa 2010 and, in addition, two fresh gems were unearthed during their campaign, who emerged as two of the tournament's brightest revelations.
.
"Ashkan is a great player who can help the team in next year's World Cup. He's fast, has great crossing ability and is really difficult to defend against. Above all, he's a nice person to hang out and work with. I can't wait to play him again," Queiroz told footballiran.ir Meanwhile, Standard Liege-based Ghoochannejhad is confident about his team's chances.
.
"I am very happy with my team-mates," Ghoochannejhad said. "Everybody likes to work and support their team-mate in and outside the pitch. I haven't though thought about our World Cup prospects but we are really confident about this team."
.
Dejagah, who joined English Premiership side Fulham from VfL Wolfsburg last season, has also expressed his hunger to return from injury.
.
"I miss my team-mates and coach Queiroz," he said.
.
"Playing in front of the Iranian fans is so wonderful. I became so desperate after finding out I was unavailable for our last three qualifying matches."
Nigeria should play the first game against Iran as if they were already playing against Argentina. 9 points is what we need