Pre match pep talk passes by Japan's Alex

BONN, June 11 (Reuters) A World Cup pep-talk given by Japan's soccer chief to the Japanese squad was completely lost on the team's Brazilian-born defender Alex.

Japan Football Association (JFA) chief Saburo Kawabuchi dropped in on the squad during training yesterday to rally the troops for tomorrow's World Cup opener against Australia.

But it was lost on Alex.

''I was wondering what he was talking about,'' smiled the 28-year-old, who speaks intermediate Japanese. ''I had to ask (interpreter) Suzuki-san what he was going on about.'' Alex, who was granted Japanese citizenship in 2001, is expected to make his 73rd appearance for his adopted country in their opening Group F game in Kaiserslautern.

''Whatever he said we're only two days away from our first match,'' said Alex, who has played more games (64) than any other Japan player under current coach Zico.

''I'm just going to try to relax.'' Japan face Brazil, Australia and Croatia in Group F.

REUTERS PDS PM1530