"I simply want Japan to qualify for the 2006 World Cup in Germany," Japan's most recognisable player said on his website.

"This is probably my last chance (to play at a World Cup) but if I'm an obstacle to the team then I don't mind quitting."

Japan coach Zico was heavily criticised for changing his tactics to accommodate Nakata for last month's Asian World Cup qualifiers against Iran and Bahrain.

The Fiorentina midfielder had not played for his country for a year before Japan's visit to Iran due to injury problems.

A 2-1 defeat in Tehran and a fortuitous 1-0 home win over Bahrain left Japan second in their group on six points from three games, one point behind Iran.

The top two teams in the two final stage Asian zone qualifying groups go straight to next year's finals.

"If I said everything I was thinking after those games the media would have had a field day," said Nakata, who helped co-hosts Japan reach the second round of the 2002 World Cup.

"Japan won the Asian Cup last year and it was a good achievement but have we really left Asia behind?"