Lennie gets his way over Inamoto

Lennie Lawrence looks to have won his club v country battle over Junichi Inamoto. Japan are involved in international fixtures over the next two weeks with a crucial World Cup qualifier against rivals North Korea taking place 72 hours after the West Ham game at Upton Park.

There was a fear that Japan would invoke the 4 day rule on the call up of players but as February 9th is a designated friendly date Japan can only take up a 48 hour option. Lennie has been in talks with Japan coach Zico.

Now it loks as though Inamoto will miss the two friendly games scheduled for Japan to play next week and then he will play against West Ham before flying immediately to Japan for the Korea match.

"I've been told Inamoto will fly out after our game at West Ham and I'm delighted with that situation because he's in exceptional form right now," said Lawrence.

Cardiff also have a Finnish player on international duty. Midfielder Tony Koskela has been caled up for the Finland U21 squad.