Inter captain Mauro Icardi should not feel too bad about his omission from the Argentina national team, with countryman and ex-Nerazzurri striker Hernan Crespo insisting it is out of respect for the frontman.
The 24-year-old’s only appearance for his county came back in October 2013, but rumours continue that his absence is due to Lionel Messi’s disapproval of the striker’s affair with former teammate Maxi Lopez’ then-wife.
“I think Mauro should be in the national squad,” admitted Crespo to Ilbianconero.com.
“If for no other reason that the amount of goals he has scored, but behind the decision of [coach Edgardo] Bauza is for a respectful reason.
“He does not call because Icardi is not the right goalscorer, but because he would face 28 hours of travel to reach the retreat and then watch his teammates play from the bench.
“I hope and believe that this is reason not to include Icardi.”
