Ortega eyes World Cup place

Ariel Ortega is hoping to claim a place in Argentina's World Cup squad.

The 32-year-old, who has played in the last three World Cups, believes that he has a slim chance of representing his country in Germany this summer after some impressive club performances.

Currently playing for Newell's Old Boys in his native Argentina, he has also been linked with a return to former club River Plate, where he began his career.

Renowned for his temperamental personality, Ortega has insisted that he deserves a place in the World Cup squad.

"I am realistic and know that it's very difficult but I still have the ambition to play at the World Cup," he said.

"I am playing very well at the moment, but I know that it is the coach who makes the decision and he already has his players.

"There are players in the squad who haven't done anything and others who are there because they have played well a couple of times and the press want them in the team.

"I haven't been in touch with the coach or his assistants but I hope that when I am it is because I have been called into the team.

"My opinion is that Argentina have the best players in the world, so I hope that when the World Cup comes they can show what they are capable of when it really matters."