Argentine defender Marcos Rojo has sent his commiserations to compatriot Giovani Lo Celso, with the Tottenham man set to miss out on the World Cup.
Lo Celso had looked extremely likely to be a part of Lionel Scaloni’s squad for the tournament in Qatar, having established himself as a key player for his country under the manager.
He returned on loan to Villarreal in the summer from Tottenham in order to continue playing regularly and ensure his form and fitness ahead of the tournament this month.
Those hopes have been dashed, though, with a torn muscle in his leg having ruled him out for several months and the World Cup in the process.
The Tottenham man had been fighting to try and keep his place in Argentina’s group, initially refusing surgery despite Tottenham and Villarreal pushing for it.
The decision has ultimately been taken out of his hands, with Argentina unsure if he would even be available for the knockout phases of the competition and electing to not risk his inclusion.
It’s a major blow for the player, and one Rojo admits must have been a difficult one to stomach given the circumstances.
“Lo Celso must have hit everyone, it must be very sad to be in his place,” ESPN report him saying.
“I was thinking a lot about how he must be; you’re already thinking about it and you see that you’re out.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to wish him a speedy recovery, I’m sure he’ll get his chance for redemption.”
