In a chat with The Indian Express here today, Vece, the 1972 hockey Olympian, confirmed reports that indeed there were ``slight differences between Leander and Mahesh which have surfaced now.''

In the same breath, he added: ``Such differences are bound to occur in a long and intense relationship. But then, they have been far too close and far too successful to allow these differences to continue. I am sure they will sort things out provided they are left alone.''

Though Vece did not say it in so many words, he let it know that the media reports on the problems between Leander and Mahesh have only compounded the situation.

``At this moment, I will be grateful if both Leander and Mahesh are left alone, and the focus is on their tennis,'' said Vece.