South African fans are famous for blowing their vuvuzelas throughout every game they attend, and Alonso believes their whistles are a source of distraction.

"The vuvuzelas are an annoyance and add nothing to the atmosphere, they should be banned," the Liverpool man said after Spain's 1-0 win over Iraq.

A vuvuzela whistle is 70 cm long and has a power of 80 decibel.

From his side, FIFA president Josef Blatter was first to defend the vuvuzela by saying that such customs are the beautiful essence of football in Africa.

"That is what African and South Africa football is all about - noise, excitement, dancing, shouting and enjoyment. This is a celebration," Blatter said.