The World Cup is the ultimate dream of any player in the world, more so the players from third world countries. Missing on the World Cup can be morally devastating for some especially if such a player has done enough to justify his selection in the national team that had made it to the World Cup. When the player has contributed towards the qualification, it seems cruel to give such player the pink chit and tell him thank you but your services are not required in the World Cup.
The media in particular relishes such stories, some of them dramatic especially if it is associated with some firework in form of statements and verbal war.
Our story does not have that sort of drama, in fact it is honorably accepted by the player who has opted to keep silent and take out his sorrow in the privacy of his surroundings rather than public outcry.
In this article we want to spare a thought to Mohammad Reza Khalatbary, the Persepolis winger who was surprisingly omitted from the final list of 23 players.
A quick look at Khalatbary contribution towards the FIFA World Cup 2014 campaign paints more than a decent picture of a valuable player. Khalatbary played a total of 13 matches (9 as a started 4 as a substitute). He scored 2 goals; the first one was a goal for the record books as it was scored in the injury time against Uzbekistan in Tashkent in the first match of the finals rounds of qualification. A true gem of a goal , a more boosting strike and a savior for Team Melli.
Khalatbary value as a pacey skilful winger has been in evidence in Team Melli and his clubs numerous of times. His explosive runs on the flanks , his ability to dribble , his bravery, his assists , his crosses and finally his sheer commitment and devotion made this player a number is not easily ignored by coaches.
But Carlos Queiroz had other ideas not strictly according to the script and formbook.
So, who is the player who has taken Khalatbary’s place in the plane to Brazil? All fingers direct towards Masoud Shojaei who also operates on the right midfield and plays also as pseudo winger.
Shojaei’s contribution toward Iran’s qualification to the world cup was 5 matches and no goals. It also included one red card against South Korea in Azadi.
Khaltabry is 30 while Shojaei is a year younger, however, there is marked difference between the pace and stamina of the two players. While Khalatbary’s speed is his hallmark especially in short distances, shojaei looks lethargic in comparison and hardly been known for his pace.
Despite the better qualities and contribution of Khalatbary over Shojaei in this campaign, the Las Palmas midfielder was picked and we largely believe that it is his playing in 2nd division team in Europe plus the previous experience with Osasuna in the La Liga that has put shojaei ahead of Khalatbary in the picking order.
Whether this is justified or not or whether players other than Shojaei have been preferred over Khalatbary is immaterial as Queiroz has his own justification and selection criteria that is, if not respected or appreciated by the fans, it should at least be accepted. What is wretched in particular about Khalatbary’s exclusion is that he might never have a chance to play in the biggest football event in the world.
Spare a though for Mohammad Reza Khalatbary , who has been fighting and giving his best anytime he has been called for duty. Perhaps he is not everyone’s cup of team, but no one can not accuse him of not trying or lack of passion for his team. The Ramsar winger that entertained the crowds for years and reached the piicle of his career when he was picked by the great Diego Maradona a to play for Al Wasl, may never have a chance to show some of his magic to the rest of the world.
We salute Khalatbary.