Drogba Could Play, Queiroz Protest

PORT ELIZABETH – Portugal National team coach, Carlos Queiroz protest FIFA for allowing the Ivory Coast attacker, Didier Drogba, appearing in the World Cup in a state of the hand in a cast.

The problem started when Portugal plays against Côte d’Ivoire in the group stage of World Cup 2010 South Africa, Tuesday (15/06/2010). Drogba, who injured in his hand, entered the field as a substitute, with his hand in a cast.

Queiroz was frowned on, because according to him, FIFA rules prohibit players perform in the field by wearing protective gear. Besides being for the sake of regulation, Queiroz rate, Drogba protective tool could endanger  other players.

"FIFA decided that the referee can decide (whether players may appear or not). That sounds strange for us because the rules apply to the National team stating that a player can not play with the (protective gear)," said Quiroz.

"But suddenly., A player signed in (by wearing protective gear) in his hand, and puts other players in the risk,"

"When people tell me there are African football stars who will appear, I wonder whether that rule applies to all. We saw the (protection), but we really do not know what he’s wearing. Perhaps, against Brazil, the rules will change again , "he explained

Versus Brazilian, Drogba Ready to play "Full Time"

Meanwhile, captain and the Ivorian striker, Didier Drogba says he is ready to appear in the first minute against Brazil, June 21 next. Chelsea players are confident, his condition will fit in second match allowance for the Group G World Cup 2010.

Two weeks ago, June 4, Drogba getting elbow injury during the match trials. Consequently, he had to use elbow guards when Ivory Coast duel with Portugal at the inaugural group stage match on Tuesday (15/6/10). In this fight, which ended a draw 0-0, Drogba is reserved and a starting to play in the 66th minute.

"I’m ready. We have five days to prepare for this game, I will there, I will there," he said.

Ivory Coast will test the Brazil strength on June 21 at the Soccer City Stadium, Johannesburg. After that, they will play ultimate party group stage against South Korea, on June 25, at the Mbombela Stadium, Nelspruit.