Stunning start leads to call up for Jonas Gutierrez

Aug 31 2008 by Neil Farrington, Sunday Sun

JONAS GUTIERREZ’S stunning start to life at Newcastle has earmarked him as Argentina’s brightest rising star.

Argentina coach Alfio Basile belatedly called Gutierrez, pictured, and United team-mate Fabricio Coloccini into his squad for next week’s World Cup qualifiers against Paraguay and Peru.

And Basile insists he had no choice but to pick a player whose right to play for his country is under legal threat from his former club Velez Sarsfield.

“I have called Gutierrez into the national team because he has begun the season in formidable form,” Basile told the Sunday Sun.

“There’s now no doubt that there should be a regular place for him in the squad.

“We have lost Nicolas Burdisso to injury and Jonas is easily the best replacement.”

Basile added: “I am convinced Jonas will be a triumph at Newcastle. I have spoken to him and he is very excited about moving to the Premier League.

“I think that England is the best league for a player with his qualities.”

Velez still claim 50 per cent ownership of Gutierrez from when they sold him to Real Mallorca and have demanded he be banned from international action while they pursue him for compensation.

“There is controversy in FIFA, but Argentina needs Jonas,” insisted Basile. “I don’t get involved in problems between clubs and players.”

And on Coloccini, who has also settled quickly at St James’s Park, Basile said: “He is a sure thing for Argentina.

“He has improved a lot in the last few years, and moving to Newcastle is another jump in quality for the kid.

“I look forward to going to Newcastle this season to watch a match.”