Argentina Squad for USA and Costa Rica Friendlies

Manager Sergio Batista has named the Argentina squad for the Albiceleste’s international friendlies with the United States (March 26th in New York) and Costa Rica (March 29th in San Jose).

In-form Manchester City striker Carlos Tevez was left out of the squad following his withdrawal from last November’s meeting with Brazil in order to play for his club. Benfica forward Eduardo Salvio, FC Porto midfielder Fernando Belluschi and Internacional midfielder Mario Bolatti return to the national team setup.

Goalkeepers: Sergio Romero (AZ Alkmaar), Mariano Andujar (Catania), Adrian Gabbarini (Independiente)

Defenders: Javier Zanetti (Inter Milan), Pablo Zabaleta (Manchester City), Nicolas Burdisso (AS Roma), Nicolas Otamendi (Porto), Gabriel Milito (Barcelona), Marcos Rojo (Spartak Moscow), Ezequiel Garay (Real Madrid), Federico Fazio (Sevilla)

Midfielders: Javier Mascherano (Barcelona), Mario Bolatti (Internacional), Esteban Cambiasso (Inter Milan), Fernando Belluschi (Porto), Ever Banega (Valencia), Angel Di Maria (Real Madrid), Javier Pastore (Palermo), Lucas Biglia (Anderlecht), Jose Sosa (Napoli)

Forwards: Lionel Messi (Barcelona), Ezequiel Lavezzi (Napoli), Nicolas Gaitan (Benfica), Eduardo Salvio (Benfica)