Argentina's Martinez leaves door ajar for Paraguay nationality switch

Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-11 08:51:48|Editor: huaxia

BUENOS AIRES, May 10 (Xinhua) -- Argentine central defender David Martinez has not ruled out representing Paraguay should he be called up by national team boss Eduardo Berizzo.

The 23-year-old has been in impressive form for River Plate since returning to his former club in January following a loan spell at Defensa y Justicia.

Despite having represented Argentina at youth level, Martinez remains eligible to play for Paraguay, where his mother was born.

"I have my head here [in Argentina]. When the time comes I will discuss it with my family, I have their support," the Ole news service quoted Martinez as saying on Monday.

"I'm here now and that's where my focus is. I don't know what will happen in the future."

Media outlets in Argentina and Paraguay have reported that Martinez could be called up by Berizzo for Paraguay's next doubleheader of World Cup qualifiers early next month, as well as the Copa America, which begins on June 13.

Martinez has made 12 starts at the heart of River's defense this season following 40 matches over 18 months for Defensa y Justicia. Enditem

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