Hattori injury hits Japan's plans

An injury to key player Toshihiro Hattori has hit Japan's preparations for next month's Sydney Olympics.

The Jubilo Iwata utility player injured his left thigh muscle during Saturday's 2-1 league defeat away to Avispa Fukuoka and has pulled out of this week's Olympic training camp at Hokkaido.

Hattori, one of national coach Philippe Troussier's favourite players because of his experience and versatility, was a member of Japan's squad at the Atlanta Olympics and at the World Cup finals in France two years ago.

He seemed certain to fill one of the three places for players aged over 23 in the 18-strong Olympic squad, but could now be sidelined for up to three weeks.

Although he has not been ruled out yet, Hattori has been replaced at this week's training camp by Nagoya Grampus Eight defender Masahiro Koga.