World Cup 2010: Cameroon old timers unhappy with youth

By Soccernet staff| 18 June 2010 | ESPN|

Rigobert Song (L) sits on the bench against Japan (GettyImages)

Cameroon‘s senior players claim their country’s youngsters are not up to standard and have asked coach Paul Le Guen to reconsider his line up for their next match, against Denmark on Saturday.

Cameroon lost 1-0 to Japan in their opening Group E match and desperately need a win at Pretoria’s Loftus Versfeld stadium to have a realistic hope of making the second round.

Frenchman Le Guen omitted seasoned campaigners like defender Rigobert Song and Geremi, along with highly-rated players such as Arsenal‘s Alexandre Song from his starting selection to face Japan game.

“What we have seen in recent games, which we think is unfortunate, is that many young fresh players have been introduced into the team at the expense of experienced ones,” midfielder Achille Emana said.

“They cannot withstand the sort of pressure that comes with playing in big tournaments such as the World Cup. That is why we are appealing to the coach to review the line-up for Saturday’s game against Denmark.”

Emana, usually an attacking midfielder, came on as a second half substitute against Japan but was also unhappy about the role he is expected to perform for his country.

“More often than not I am not fielded in my right position. I’m made to chase the ball all over the field. And, in that case, how do you expect me to be effective?” he said.