April 8, 2002

Argentina defender Nelson Vivas has not given up hope of recovering in time to make the World Cup. "It's one chance in a hundred but nothing is impossible," declared the Internazionale full-back.

The former Arsenal and Celta Vigo defender has been out of action since February after badly injuring his knee in training.

"I have to be truthful and admit that at the moment I feel that I am not going to the World Cup - but I don't want to think that way," he explained.

"I have already moved without any problem and players have recovered from injuries like mine in just 100 days. Roberto Baggio has the same injury, and Italy want to take him to the World Cup, so why can't I be ready?"

The defender admits he has not spoken to Argentina coach Marcelo Bielsa about the situation. "We don't have anything to talk about because I am injured and getting fit," he explained.

But Vivas remains upbeat. "I am happy because everything is going on fine," he said. "It would be great to be in perfect physical condition for the World Cup but if I don't manage it I will keep on working very hard for the next season."

The 32-year-old was in the Argentina side that reached the quarter-finals of the last World Cup, where his performances won him a move to Arsenal.

However, Vivas failed to establish himself at the north London club and also endured a difficult loan spell with Celta.

But Inter's Argentinian coach Hector Cuper was happy to pick up the defender last summer.

Onefootball