Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
Sport
Connor O'Neill

Argentina World Cup winner in talks to return for Liverpool match

Emi Martinez is set for crunch talks with Aston Villa over whether he will feature against Liverpool next week.

The Reds return to Premier League action when they make the trip to Villa Park next Monday. First up for Jurgen Klopp’s side is a Carabao Cup clash against Manchester City at the Etihad on Thursday.

Martinez starred in goal as Argentina claimed the World Cup for the third time in their history on Sunday afternoon. Martinez’s side eventually beat France 4-2 on penalties after a pulsating 3-3 draw at the Lusail Stadium in Lusail.

READ MORE: Enzo Fernandez transfer latest as Liverpool and FSG make January plan

READ MORE: Enzo Fernandez 'transfer fee' admission made by Eddie Howe amid Liverpool links

A brace from Lionel Messi, in between an Angel Di María strike, ensured spot-kicks would decide the destination of the trophy. And while Argentina's takers did their job by calmly converting all four of their penalties, Kingsley Coman and Aurelien Tchouameni failed to convert from 12-yards.

And now according to Birmingham Live, Villa will get an idea of Martinez's state of mind before Unai Emery makes a decision on whether he will be in contention. The report goes on to claim that back-up goalkeeper Robin Olsen will be eyeing an opportunity, if required.

Martinez, who claimed the Golden Glove award, said post-match: "It was a very complicated match, they came back to equalise in the game but it was our destiny to suffer.

"All that I have dreamed of has been achieved. I have no words for it. I was calm during the penalty shoot-out, and everything went as we wanted. I left very young for England. I dedicate this victory to all my family."

READ NEXT:

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.