Breaking News – Barcos to play for Argentina

It’s just been announced that Hernán Barcos’ name is on Argentine national coach Alejandro Sabella’s list for the upcoming 2014 World Cup qualifiers against Paraguay (7 September at home) and Peru (11 September, away). Barcos did little to hide his enthusiasm when interviewed by the Argentine Radio 9 news channel earlier today: “I will try to take advantage of this great opportunity, I will fight side by side with great players”, he said and continued: “It’s a reward. One tries to stay humble, not believing it. Sabella himself called me up. My family is very excited, they can’t believe it.”

This is Barcos’ first opportunity to play for Argentina. Although unfortunate for Palmeiras that Barcos will miss two, possibly three games in the Brasileirão, it’s of course fantastic news that one of the most important players in the squad is being recognised in this manner. Barcos deserves it. And it’s of course good for spreading Palmeiras’ name across the globe.

Anything Palmeiras wishes Barcos success in this new chapter of his career: may it be a long and glorious one!

Avanti Barcos! Avanti Palestra!
.

— ooo —

Edit: as requested, the full list.

Keepers
Sérgio Romero (Sampdoria – Italy)
Mariano Andújar (Catania – Italy)

Defenders
Pablo Zabaleta (Manchester City – England)
Fabricio Coloccini (Newcastle – England)
Ezequiel Garay (Benfica – Portugal)
Hugo Campagnaro (Napoli – Italy)
Federico Fernández (Napoli – Italy)
Marcos Rojo (Sporting – Portugal)

Midfielders
Javier Mascherano (Barcelona – Spain)
Enzo Pérez (Benfica – Portugal)
Fernando Gago (Valencia – Spain)
Pablo Guiñazú (Internacional – Brazil)
José Sosa (Metalist – Ucrain)
Ángel Di María (Real Madrid – Spain)

Forwards
Lionel Messi (Barcelona – Spain)
Gonzalo Higuaín (Real Madrid – Spain)
Sergio Agüero, (Manchester City – England)
Hernán Barcos, (Palmeiras – Brazil)
Rodrigo Palacio (Internazionale – Italy)
Ezequiel Lavezzi (Paris Saint Germain – France)