EMILIO Izaguirre has already tasted minor World Cup disappointment before a ball has been kicked.

The Celtic defender's ideal group draw would have seen Honduras paired with a country containing some of his Celtic team-mates.

But the South Americans avoided the likes of Greece, England, Nigeria and Australia.

Which means he'll miss out on going head to head with Hoops pals Georgios Samaras, Fraser Forster, Efe Ambrose and Tom Rogic at Brazil.

Unless, of course, Honduras get through their group against France, Ecuador and Switzerland.

"For me, I wanted to play Greece, Nigeria, England or Australia, but that wasn't possible," said Izaguirre. "But maybe we can get them in the next round!"

Izaguirre and his countrymen will kick off their campaign against a star-studded France side on June 15 and he believes it's vital they start with a positive result.

"France is the most important game and if we don't lose the game it will give us confidence and my team-mates and I will work very hard for this and in every game in the group," he said."

Izaguirre admits his homeland will be huge underdogs to escape the group, but he told the official Celtic website they won't fear anyone.

"It's a tough group with some very good teams," said the full-back. "It won't be easy for us as Ecuador are a very good South American team and France and Switzerland are top European teams.

"It will be very hard but I will try my best for the country to get into the next round."

Until then, however, Izaguirre's full concentration will be on club duties and helping the Hoops enjoy as successful second half of the season as they aim to defend their league and cup double.

"My focus is on Celtic over the next five months and working hard for the team," he added. "Only after May 17, I can start looking forward to the World Cup."