World Cup 2010

World Cup Won't Be Affected If Cristiano Ronaldo & Lionel Messi Aren't There - Sepp Blatter

The FIFA president believes other players will step up to the plate in South Africa...

Oct 5, 2009 6:25:05 PM

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Joseph Blatter, FIFA president (AFP)

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Sepp Blatter is unconcerned by the present plights of Portugal and Argentina, both of whom are struggling to qualify for the World Cup in South Africa next year.

FIFA's president believes that there will be new stars to replace Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi if the worst should happen to their respective international sides.

"A World Cup without Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo would not be a problem for FIFA," Blatter is quoted as saying by El Mundo Deportivo.

"If they aren't there, it will have new stars. There are always new stars at World Cups."

Argentina are currently fifth in the South America qualifying section, with matches against Peru and Uruguay coming up in the next week.

Meanwhile,third-placed Portugal have a crucial game at home to Hungary before completing their qualifying fixtures against Malta.

Anthony Wright, Goal.com