May 22, 2002

Argentina manager Marcelo Bielsa altered the team's training programme on Wednesday after some of the players complained of fatigue.

Bielsa has drawn up a rigorous training schedule in order to bring the players to peak condition for the World Cup but he was forced to review those plans.

Instead of another day on the training pitch he allowed the squad to take a stroll into the village nearest where they are staying to take in the local sights.

Midfielder Javier Zanetti admitted the training schedule had taken its toll on the players.

"We are working very hard," he said. "The physical work is very tough and that's why we are so tired."

Striker Hernan Crespo echoed Zanetti's words but insisted the severity of the training was vital.

He added: "The work we are doing is really tough but we are going to be in perfect condition for the first match against Nigeria.

"It was good to get here with so much time to spare so we can adapt ourselves perfectly."

Onefootball