Karimi Rejects Iran Call-Up

GOAL - Persepolis striker Ali Karimi has rebuffed an invitation to link up with the Iranian national team by writing an open letter to the Iran Football Federation (IFF).
Ali Karimi stood firm in his criticism of the IFF, despite his ban from the national team since May.

Just six months ago, Karimi told reporters that the “current IFF formation was the weakest in his ten-year in the national team”.

He added the administrators will only “bring Iran’s football backwards rather than forward”.

Despite being slapped with a ban from playing for the national side, the 2004 Asian Player of the Year insisted "he would not take back his remarks, hoping his punishment would help solve the problems of Iran's football."

Since returning to Iran with Persepolis, Karimi has been red-hot form, netting four goals in two games for the Tehran-based outfit.

That prompted Iran coach Ali Daei to name him in his squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifying match against North Korea, which will be played next Wednesday.

Karimi however, has rejected overtures from the IFF and Daei, by writing an open letter addressed to the IFF president Ali Kafashian.

In his letter, he highlighted the "unfairness in IFF's decision to ban him from National team earlier.”

Karimi also added that “the Iran coaching team seems to be less distracted and more focused on team management without his presence."

The former Bayern Munich player said he "feels burdened to sense that I’m recommended based on current situation to get invited to the squad."

Karimi also thanked the Iran fans for their support and passion, hoping they “will understand my reasons to turn down the national team call-up."

Karimi ended his open-letter by writing: "I devoted myself to National team for years.

“By saying farewell to the national team, I can help the team more.

“Best wishes to Iran National team's success in their road to qualification for World Cup 2010."

Team Melli currently lie in third place in Group Two in the final round of World Cup qualifying, having drawn 1-1 with Saudi Arabia in their opening match.