Argentina’s first training session ahead of the friendly against Germany on Wednesday was attended by only 12 members of the squad as a combination of injury, the close of the European transfer window and participation in the Charity match in Rome meant many others were absent. This included new coach, Gerardo Martino, who was in Rome so the session was led by his assistants, Jorge Pautasso and Elvio Paolorosso.

The twelve that trained in Düsseldorf were:  Mariano Andújar, Pablo Zabaleta, Martín Demichelis, Federico Fernández, José María Basanta, Marcos Rojo, Augusto Fernández, Lucas Biglia, Enzo Pérez, Angel Di María, Sergio Agüero and Gonzalo Higuaín.

Nicolás Gaitán and Erik Lamela, who have been called up after several injuries were expected to arrive last night and so should be with the group now and Javier Mascherano, Hugo Campagnaro and Ricky Alvarez were all with Tata Martino in Rome.

Maxi Rodriguez and Ezequiel Lavezzi were also in attendance but injury looks like it will keep them out of the match on Wednesday.

They will join Rodrigo Palacio, Ezequiel Garay and Lionel Messi as those who miss out because of injury.

Messi’s absence has sparked rumours that he is not interested in playing for Argentina in this friendly but Barcelona teammate, Javier Mascherano was quick to dismiss this when asked by reporters in Rome. El Jefecito said “If there is anyone committed to the selection, it is Messi.”

Angel Di Maria is in Germany along with Manchester United coleague, Marcos Rojo and he admitted that the friendly at this early stage of the season is less than ideal.