Mariano Pernía on everybody's lips (24 Jan 2006 04:04 GMT)
Mariano Pernía, Getafe defender, got on everybody's lips after he scored two goals in game with Espanyol Barcelona which was defeated 5-0.
Some rumours appeared that, for the injures of key defenders Ayala and Heinze, he is likely to be called up by Pekerman for friendly game with Croatia and what's more important for the World Cup.
But the 22-year-old has also spanish nationality and believes Spain coach Luis Aragones rates his services and is mulling over including him in the country's play-off clashes.
"It would be very nice to have the chance to go to the World Cup," said Pernia and later he added "I am not going to lose my faith and I am going to keep on working very hard to have that chance."
"I have never been called to the Argentinian national team and I don't think that I will, so I would like to play for Spain. I would be very proud if that happens and it would be in addition a very good opportunity for my career."
Pernia would follow in the footsteps of Alfredo di Stefano in the 60s and Juan Antonio Pizzi in the 90s should he go on to play for Spain.
source : La Nacion, Sky Sports