A handful of the Iraqi team play outside their war-torn home country, largely in Arabic leagues, but none have so far made the big switch to Europe.

Mahmoud, who plays for Al Gharafa in the competitive Qatari league, winning this season's Golden Boot award, said some players were ready.

"Some of us play in Arab football leagues and we receive many offers (from Arabic teams)," he said.

"But I think many of the Iraqi players also have the ability to play in Europe."

He said the talent was there, but youngsters faced problems with war ravaging their country and poor facilities in Iraq.

"If we had facilities like other teams in other countries I think Iraqi players would be in Europe, but there are very poor conditions in Iraq, not just now but for a long time."

Midfielder Nashat Akram, who is out of contract with Saudi club Al Shabab, was this month linked with several European clubs, including England's Sunderland, but it is understood that he will now sign with an Egyptian side.