Kagawa frozen out by Honda

Kagawa scored on his Old Trafford debut in last week's 3-2 win over Fulham.

But despite positive reviews, he is likely to play on the left when Japan faces Iraq in 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifying on 12 September (AEST).

Blocking his path is CSKA Moscow dangerman Keisuke Honda, Zaccheroni's preferred choice to play in the hole behind the forwards.

"Honda is an important player I always call up. I think his best position is behind the front line. This is his position," said the Italian.

"It is good that his condition is good while others are still not at their best."

With four goals in Japan's three latest qualifiers, it's hard to argue against Honda. The marauding bottle blond has also scored three and set up two more in CSKA Moscow's seven games so far this season.

But the arrangement does not entirely suit Kagawa, who has previously grumbled at being moved aside.

"I'm not a player who creates chances there. I could not move in further," he said, after failing to get amongst the goals in Japan's 3-0 win over Oman in June.

Zaccheroni's men take on an Iraq led by Brazilian legend Zico, who was at the helm in Japan for four years from 2002 and is well respected for his understanding of the Japanese game.

"Iraq are favoured to reach the World Cup from this group and I'm sure they are determined to do well against Japan," said Zaccheroni. "Zico has international experience and knows Japan very well.

"Their players are highly skilled and it was obvious to me when I saw them in the third round of qualifiers that they have potential."

A squad of 23 players, including 12 Europe-based players led by Standard Liege goalkeeper Eiji Kawashima and Stuttgart striker Shinji Okazaki, has been called up for the game at Saitama.

AFC Asian Cup holder Japan leads Group B with two wins and a draw for seven points.

Australia, 2007 Asian champion Iraq and Oman have two points each ahead of Jordan on one point.

Meanwhile, Japan will take on powerhouses France and Brazil in friendly matches in October.

The two matches will provide valuable experience ahead of the 2014 World Cup, the Japanese Football Association said.

The friendly against France will take place in Paris on 12 October and that against Brazil will be played in Wroclaw, Poland, on 16 October.

"I'm glad to have a chance to play against strong teams like them," said Zaccheroni. "It will be a good opportunity to help us improve further.

"Away games like this are good experience for those who are only used to playing at home and will help us to move onto a new stage, facing highly skilled players."

Japan has never beaten either team, registering one draw and four defeats against France and two draws and six defeats against Brazil.