Coloccini happy with Argentina's low profile

Berlin, May 16 (UNI) Thanks to their shocking first round exit in Korea/Japan 2002, Argentina are not exactly the pre-tournament favourites but Fabricio Coloccini is not complaining and on the contrary, the star defender feels this could be a boon in disguise for the ''Albiceleste''.

''It's better not to be among the favourites. Within the group, we all know what we're capable of, but we're keeping it to ourselves.

The best thing to do is keep your head down, ignore the criticism, work hard and give the whole country something to celebrate,'' he said.

''Are we being too heavily criticised? Perhaps, but we're used to it. We know what football's like and we accept it,'' he said.

The Deportivo La Coruna defender also admiited that the shock exit at Korea/Japan 2002 had a huge impact on the fans.

''I suppose that it must have a been a big letdown for the supporters. The team were unstoppable in qualifying, stormed past their rivals and went to Korea/Japan as the big favourites.'' ''The first-round exit must have been a massive disappointment.

That's why I believe it's better to be in the situation we are now; fully aware of just what it means to be Argentina and knowing our opponents will be in awe of us for that very reason. We're obliged to go out and win all our games and we're going to meet that challenge.'' With a number of players coming back frmo injuries, Coloccini, admitted it's going to be a tricky situation.

''Clearly it's worrying more than anything because you never know how you're going to perform after being out for a long time. It's not just about getting back to fitness, it's about being able to perform and compete at the highest level.'' ''The World Cup is a very short competition, with a lot of games in a short space of time and you need to be in the best possible shape. You don't get any favours,'' he added.

Argentina has been clubbed with Ivory Cost, Serbia and Montenegro and the Netherlands in Group C and asked how he would thwart forwards like Didier Drogba, Ruud van Nistelrooy and Mateja Kezman in the first round. Coloccini seemed unperturbed by the prospect.

''I keep them in mind, but I'm not obsessed with what each of them does or doesn't do. They are obviously very important players, but they don't win matches by themselves.'' ''You have to keep an eye on the entire team. Drogba especially is incredibly dangerous, he always knows where the goal is and you can't let him out of your sight.'' Asked to name the favourites, the defender with dyed-blond hair named continental rivals Brazil.

''Brazil are the overwhelming favourites, not just for their current performances but for their history and the trophies they've won. But that suits us just fine. We'll get our heads down and work quietly towards our goal. We the players, as well as the coaching staff, are convinced of our own ability and what we are capable of achieving in Germany,'' he added.

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