Japan coach Zico pledges to repay JFA's faith

KAISERSLAUTERN, June 11 (Reuters) Japan coach Zico has pledged to repay his employers' faith in him by delivering victory in his side's opening World Cup match tomorrow.

The Brazilian has endured his share of criticism since his appointment in 2002 but said Japan's meticulous preparation for their Group F showdown with Australia would pay dividends.

''I'm confident we can come away with the result we want,'' Zico told reporters today. ''We have been working towards this point for four years and want to get off to a strong start.'' Zico paid tribute to Japan Football Association (JFA) officials for backing him during the team's unconvincing World Cup qualifying campaign.

JFA president Saburo Kawabuchi stood by his man despite public protests in Tokyo calling for Zico's dismissal.

''I'm honoured and fortunate to have been given four years with this team,'' said Zico. ''When the public were on our backs we stuck to our guns and kept believing.'' Zico picked out Harry Kewell as Australia's biggest threat, despite the fact the Liverpool player is unlikely to go the full 90 minutes because of a recent groin injury.

''Even if Kewell comes off the bench we know he has the ability to make an immediate impact,'' said Zico. ''We will have to keep him firmly in check.'' Zico added: ''Australia are a tough side. We know that. They have many experienced players but so do we. We should be able to take three points if we play our game.'' Japan, who reached the last 16 as co-hosts in 2002, play Croatia and holders Brazil after their clash with Australia in Kaiserslautern.

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