Alexis Mac Allister’s father, Carlos Mac Allister, has claimed some credit for the Brighton and Hove Albion star’s recent performances, claiming he told former Seagulls boss Graham Potter where to play his son.
Mac Allister has been one of the star men for Argentina at the World Cup in Qatar, playing a key role in their run to the final of the competition.
He came into the side in their second group game against Mexico after being left on the bench for the defeat to Saudi Arabia in the opening game and hasn’t looked back since.
His introduction to the team, alongside other changes made by Lionel Scaloni, have been to the sides turnaround at the tournament and the Brighton man has been receiving praise as a result.
His form in Qatar has been a continuation of his fine form for Brighton this season, having started and finished all of their 14 Premier League games this season and scored five goals to date.
The 23-year-old is very much considered something of a rising star and his father believes he deserves some form of credit for that.
“I was convinced (he would be in the squad),” he told El Pais.
“When I saw the level he reached at Brighton in May, it was clear to me. Alexis’ best position is inside.
“I told Brighton when they put him behind the striker last year, because he has a good pass, sacrifice, he is strong on the ball, aggressive, supportive, he knows how to find space.
“Potter doubled the gamble and put him as a pivot and his performance in the first 14 games of this Premiership has been impressive.
“He has the stats of the best: Kovacic, Hojbjerg, Henderson, Brozovic… I send him all the comparative reports.”
