By DAN KARELL
Victor Manuel Vucetich’s first order of duty as Mexico manager was to select a roster for a mid-week September training camp, and he proved he’s not afraid to bring in the old guard to the side.
Former Barcelona and New York Red Bulls defender Rafael Marquez is included on Vucetich’s 25-man domestic-based roster as the manager continues his preparation for Mexico’s final two World Cup qualifying matches on October 11 vs. Panama and a visit to Costa Rica on October 15. It’s the 34-year-old Club Leon defender’s first time in a Mexico squad since June 2012, when he sat on the bench in two of Mexico’s third round qualifiers.
Marquez has had a very strong Apertura season so far for Leon, starting all ten games this season and leading the best defense in Liga MX, having conceded just six goals. In his career, Marquez has made 111 appearances for El Tri.
In addition to the selection of Marquez, Vucetich has called up Lucas Lobos, an uncapped Argentine attacking midfielder who can play for Mexico after earning his citizenship this summer. Lobos joins Damian Alvarez and Christian “Chaco” Gimenez as one of three Argentine-born players in the training camp squad.
The camp is set to take place from September 22 and 25 in Mexico City, Mexico.
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What do you think of this news? Do you see Marquez being called into the squad for the World Cup qualifiers? Do you believe Marquez can still play at a high level internationally?
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