An Argentine newspaper reports that several high-profile players in the Albiceleste squad are frustrated with their limited playing time.
They have been one of the most impressive teams of the World Cup so far, winning fans with attractive football and an excellent squad spirit instilled by coach Diego Maradona.But recent reports from the Argentina camp suggest several players are unhappy with their lack of first team action and how they have been handled by the eccentric trainer.
Clarin asserted on Monday that senior players Juan Sebastian Veron, Jonas Gutierrez and Walter Samuel are unsettled in the squad, having started the tournament in the first XI and for various reasons seeing themselves recently on the bench.
Veron and Samuel both suffered injuries in the group stages, but believe themselves to be 100% fit and are allegedly frustrated that 'El Pelusa' does not share their opinion.
Gutierrez meanwhile is said to be angered that he started the tournament playing out of position at right back, and after a pair of less than convincing performances there has been taken out of the side and left on the bench.
The Argentine newspaper does admit that none of the players involved have stated publicly their frustrations. Maradona however was moved to comment on the allegations of unrest shortly before the victory over Mexico, telling the press: "little niggling things are happening, which we are trying to resolve within the group."
After the Mexico game however, Diego denied any question of conflicts, insisting that the team was still together.
"My relationship with the boys is excellent. I left out some heavyweights, but out of respect to their team-mates, the coach and the shirt they have to be ready to play. This way when I turn and ask them to get on the field, they are ready to help the team. We came here to leave our skin in order to win the cup."
No comments:
Post a Comment