Hashemian Wants Return To Iran National Team

PFDC - Iran's German-based striker Vahid Hashemian has repeated his wish to return to the Iranian national team in 2008.

The Vfl Bochum striker had informed the Iranian football federation (IFF) that he did not wish to be considered for Iran's first round of World Cup qualifiers.

The final stage of qualification starts in September and 'The Helicopter' is keen to join Team Melli.

"For several reasons, six month ago I told IFF I will not be able to play in this stage but will be ready to play in the next stage if they want me to," the striker, who had refused to play for the national team between 2002 and 2004, told Iranian daily Alborz Sports.

"At that time there was no head of IFF, and in my club football I was facing several challenges and had to rest.

"Now if Ali Daei invites me for the next round, I will be at Team Melli's service like always. And if he does not want me, I will pray for Team Melli.

"The 31-year-old meanwhile earned his UEFA B coaching license and is planning to clinch the UEFA A license next year.

"One of my goals is to be head coach of the Iranian national team", Hashemian told Alborz.

"I want to work step-by-step toward becoming the coach of great teams and one day of Team Melli."