May 31, 2002

Argentina striker Gabriel Batistuta has revealed his frustration at coach Marcelo Bielsa's reluctance to play him alongside Hernan Crespo. "Crespo and I think we can play together, but Bielsa has a different opinion," he said.

Bielsa has built his success on adapting talented players to his system, not vice versa. And with his fluid formation only employing one out-and-out striker, one of Crespo and Batistuta is set to miss out.

"Bielsa still hasn't told me or Crespo who is going to play. We are both waiting on his decision," said Batistuta.

"I don't know who is going to play, but the truth of the matter is that it doesn't make me happy, but it doesn't even upset me because it is all up to the coach.

"Obviously I would prefer to play, but if I'm not, I will stay concentrated on how I can be useful to the team."

"Bielsa has been the same ever since I knew him at Newell's 12 years ago," he grinned.

The veteran striker is at his last World Cup, but believes this tournament's team to be the strongest he has played with.

"I think that there are some differences between this team and the France 1998 one," said the Roma striker. "That team was a good one like any other, but this one has four years more experience and I think we're are a strong candidate to win it.

"I want to win the Cup. I'm ready, in good shape, and in a positive frame of mind about winning the championship."

Argentina kick-off against Nigeria on Sunday, before playing England on June 7 and Sweden on June 12.

Onefootball