ARGENTINA COACH ADDRESSES ICARDI SNUB

Argentina national team coach Edgardo Bauza has addressed the lingering issue regarding the snub of Inter Milan in-form forward Mauro Icardi.


The manager has been heavily criticized for leaving out the hugely talented striker, particularly in a season when he has been off the charts.

“If I want to call him, I will,” Bauza said. After a draw against Peru and a shocking home loss to Paraguay in the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers, Bauza has come under fire. Fans protest at his refusal to leave out the Serie A striker despite having an impressive record of 58 goals in 114 games for Inter Milan.

“If I want to call Icardi, then I will. At this moment, I prefer Gonzalo Higuain and Lucas Pratto,” bauza told ItaSportPress.

Icardi has featured for the Argentine senior side only once despite his outstanding record and form at club level. After losing two back to back Copa America finals, and the 2014 World Cup finals, Bauza is under intense pressure to succeed with the golden generation of Argentina football stars. Bauza said he is working towards helping Tevez return to national team football despite the numerous options available.

“Carlos Tevez remains a very useful player and we all want to get this idea of retirement out of his head. I remain confident in my dream, as I am convinced we’ll be World Champions,” said Bauza.

“There are players here who have been given a great deal to the side and don’t feel they are appreciated. Coming second is not a failure, especially if you look at how the final was lost,” he added.

Paulo Dybala that was previously ignored alongside the Milan star has been given consideration in the call-up for Peru and Paraguay, but Icardi would have to wait longer to get his.