Shunsuke Nakamura has sprung to the defense of Ivica Osim and his selection methods ahead of Japan's first national team game of the year against Peru on Saturday evening.
Osim has opened himself up to criticism by calling on lesser-known youngsters ahead of more established players as he looks to build a team in preparation for the 2010 World Cup.
On Wednesday, the Japan coach added midfielders Akihiro Ienaga and Keisuke Honda, both 20, to the squad to face the South Americans along with 21-year-old JEF United Chiba midfielder Koki Mizuno, while Hiroki Mizumoto, also 21, was added late Friday after Urawa Reds defender Keisuke Tsuboi withdrew because of a thigh injury.