Marcos Rojo has withdrawn from the Argentina squad in a bid to be fit for Manchester United’s trip to Everton.
The 25-year-old has missed the last four games after suffering a hamstring injury during the 3-2 win over Southampton last month.
He was initially called up to the Argentina squad by coach Gerardo Martino for games against Ecuador on Thursday and Paraguay next Tuesday.
But he has now been given permission to stay in Manchester to aid his recovery in the hope he will be ready to play some part at Goodison Park on October 17.
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It is understood Rojo’s injury is a muscle strain rather than a tear and there is hope at Old Trafford that he could be fit to face Everton or CSKA Moscow in the Champions League four days later.
A statement released by the Argentinian FA read: "Marcos Rojo will not be part of the squad for the qualifying debut against Ecuador and Paraguay, as he is in the final phase of recovery from a grade 1 injury in his right hamstring.
"Louis Van Gaal, the Manchester United coach, was in touch yesterday afternoon with Argentina coach Gerardo Martino to explain to him the convenience of the defender finishing his recovery in the club.
"The situation was understood by the Albiceleste trainer, who will hope to have Rojo in top condition for the second qualifying double-header against Brazil and Colombia, in November."
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