12 Aug 2004(Thu)

I suppose it was inevitable that Shunsuke Nakamura would be named Asian Cup MVP.

After all, these awards almost always go to attacking players, don't they?

But, once again, I don't agree with it.

I feel Yuji Nakazawa should have been the MVP for a series of match-saving performances at the back and a couple of match-winning performances at the other end of the field.

But, just like in the J.League awards last season, Nakazawa was overlooked.

On that occasion, Reds striker Emerson was named MVP, and while I have no argument about his ability, I do question his attitude both on and off the pitch.

Nakazawa, on the other hand, is a marvellous advertisement for Japanese football.

He has had to work hard for his success, and only recently has he established himself in the national team.

He is a mood-maker and a leader, an inspirational figure both on the pitch and in the dressing room.

I wrote recently in this column that I fully expected Nakazawa to be the first Japanese defender to move overseas, and his displays in China can only have helped his cause. If, that is, he wants to play in Europe.

Defenders are valuable players, too, not just playmakers and forwards who score goals.

Of course Shunsuke is incredible, world-class in fact, with his left foot at dead-ball situations.

Who can ever forget his free kick past Barthez in the French goal at the 2003 Confederations Cup?

Steve Perryman, the former S-Pulse and Reysol manager, once said he thought that Nakamura could open a tin of beans with his left foot, and that statement highlights his amazing skill.

But in open play I still feel Shunsuke is lightweight, disappears for long spells and loses possession too much.

Shunsuke played a big part in Japan's success, especially early in the tournament, and I am not trying to take anything away from him, but I feel Nakazawa was the more consistent, more reliable, more dynamic player.

The people who matter never seem to agree with me, though!

ends