Barcelona and Argentina midfielder Javier Mascherano has defended Lionel Messi from criticism of his World Cup performances.
Mascherano and Messi were part of the Argentina side that reached the final of the tournament, losing after extra time to Germany.
Messi scored four times in the competition but all his goals came in the group stage, with the captain drawing a blank in the knockout rounds.
He was though named the World Cup’s best player, picking up the Golden Ball award, and Mascherano said that Messi made a decisive contribution in Brazil.
Mascherano also called for Argentina Coach Alejandro Sabella to remain in his post after Sabella said he intended to step down after the World Cup came to an end.
“Without Leo we wouldn’t have played the final of the World Cup,” AS reports Mascherano as saying.
“I would like to continue the project. Alejandro was always the same level and beyond his leadership he was an example for three years for his ability and honesty.
“I would like to continue the project because I think we showed we have the material to remain competitive.
“Alejandro gave me the desire to play in the national team. He, from the foundations, his beliefs, his work, convinced me that I was going to be important and I’ll be forever grateful.
“I don’t want to say anything without knowing what he’s thinking, but if we talk together there will be no problem.”
Mascherano also reflected on the disappointment of the World Cup, suggesting that with a few days’ distance the pain has subsided.
“The nicest thing that can happen in life is to pursue a dream. I did and I was fulfilled,” he said.
