Maradona turns to Riquelme

Argentina boss set to bring in playmaker

Last updated: 10th November 2008   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Maradona turns to Riquelme

Riquelme: In Maradona's plans

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Diego Maradona is keen for Juan Roman Riquelme to be part of his Argentina squad for the friendly against Scotland.

The Boca Juniors playmaker was initially omitted from a squad of 20 ahead of next Wednesday's clash at Hampden Park.

However, new coach Maradona now looks likely to bring in the former Villarreal man for his first game in charge.

"I have to talk to Roman," said Maradona. "We know he has played a lot of matches, but you cannot say no to the national team.

"Tomorrow I will analyse which home-based players we'll name to add the rest of the squad."

Maradona has met several of his European-based players over the last few days and has persuaded Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano to become his captain.

Maradona, who has also spoken with Manchester United striker Carlos Tevez, expects Argentina to be fired up for the game against Scotland.

"The result is totally positive," Maradona told Radio La Red. "When I talked to them, they felt something on their chest and their eyes opened incredibly.

"Tevez is a little bit nervous because he does not start (for United)."