New Zealand based Fiji Soccer midfielder Salesh Kumar has not been considered for the second round of the World Cup qualifier next week.

Kumar who played against the New Zealand All Whites in the opening match was not given a release from his employer.

Fiji Soccer Coach Carlos Buzetti said this is a blow to his team, as Kumar was becoming his first choice midfielder.

Buzetti said he has now included another New Zealand based player, Johnny Rao to replace Kumar in the 22 man squad.

Also named in the squad are Josaia Bukalidi, Navua's Pene Erenio and Valerio Nawatu.

The Fiji soccer side march into camp on Sunday and must beat New Caledonia next week to have any chance of qualifying for the 2010 World Cup playoffs.