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Coach dismisses South Africa link
28/04/2006: Japan boss Zico has moved quickly to deny reports linking him with the job as coach of South Africa.
Newspaper reports in the country that will host World Cup 2010 suggested the Brazilian was ready to take over their federation immediately after this year's World Cup in Germany.
"I also read this newspaper and there is no truth in that," said Zico.
"I could never negotiate a contract at this point in my career as I am only thinking about Japan and the World Cup."
The ex-Brazil international has made no secret of his desire to coach in Europe.
"I have an interest in going to Europe, but there is no negotiation - there is a wish.
"I have told (Japanese Football Association Chairman Saburo) Kawabuchi I will leave after the World Cup, but right now I can only think about the job with the national team."
Appointed after the 2002 World Cup with no previous coaching experience, Zico went on to praise his players for qualifying despite encountering many problems en route.
"We've faced earthquakes, typhoons, blackouts, playing in a stadium with no fans, political problems in China and trouble with the food.
"As a result, the players grew much more mature after facing these difficulties."
Japan face a tough first phase of Fifa World Cup 2006 where they will meet Australia, Croatia and Brazil.
Their opening match sees them meet Australia in Kaiserslautern on Monday June 12.
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