Bougherra battling back

Madjid Bougherra has backed Algeria coach Vahid Halilhodzic Algiers - Khalid Allouache Algerian defender Madjid Bougherra has told Arabstoday that he will return to the national team in their World Cup 2014 qualifier against Benin, next March. The 30-year old, currently playing his trade at Qatari club Lekhwiya, is disappointed to be missing out on the upcoming African Cup of Nations (ACN), in South Africa. Speaking at the launch event of his new charity, the Bougherra Foundation for disadvantaged children, the former Rangers man said he understood Algerian national coach Vahid Halilhodzic's decision to drop him for ACN. "I came back from an injury and I am not in perfect shape yet. He needs his players to be ready because the competition is strong and Algeria has a tough group, so I understand why he removed my name from the list." "Magic" Madjid, as named by Rangers fans said he has faith in the Algerian team to do well. "The team has the talent, the morale and cohesion, all are weapons are there for Halilhodzic and they can help him overcome all obstacles." Bougherra was full of praise for Halilhodzic, describing him as "professional" in his work. The defender added that any professional player should accept decisions of the coach because he is working in the interest of Algeria. For the defender himself, playing for the Algerian team is an honour and he hopeful of putting on the Algerian colours once again. "When I hear the national anthem, it brings out the fighting spirit within me," he said. Bougherra said that although the Algerian squad for ACN is missing some quality players, they can compensate for their lack of experience with enthusiasm and overall desire to win. "Unfortunately, we miss big names like  Hassan Yebda, Djamel Abdoun, Rafik Jabbour and Karim Matmour, but I am sure our team is full of great talent and we will do well," Bougherra concluded.