Japan coach Zico leaves hospital following stomach scare

TOKYO, Apr 3 (Reuters) Japan coach Zico left hospital today after spending the night under observation because of severe stomach pains, the Japan Football Association (JFA) said.

It was itnitially feared Zico would need surgery, but the 53-year-old Brazilian was diagnosed with gastroenteritis and would take a week off work, according to JFA officials.

''They thought yesterday it might be a blockage of his intestines and he would need an operation,'' JFA chairman Saburo Kawabuchi told reporters.

''But after a day's rest it looks as if it has improved. It was probably a build-up of fatigue. There will be no changes to the national team's schedule.'' Zico took over as Japan coach after the 2002 World Cup and led the Asian champions to this year's finals in Germany.

Japan are drawn alongside Australia, Croatia and holders Brazil in Group F.

REUTERS PDS SP1124