Argentina manager Edgardo Bauza has defended ignoring Inter Milan captain Mauro Icardi.

Local fans protested at the refusal to test Icardi when he has scored 58 goals in 114 competitive games for Inter.

“If I want to call Icardi, then I will," replied Bauza via ItaSportPress. “At this moment I prefer Gonzalo Higuain and Lucas Pratto."

Incredibly, 23-year-old Icardi has only one senior cap for Argentina and that was in 2013.

“Carlos Tevez remains a very useful player and we all want to get this idea of retirement out of his head. I remain confident in my dream, as I am convinced we'll be World Champions.

“There are players here who have given a great deal to the side and don't feel they are appreciated. Coming second is not a failure, especially if you look at how the Final was lost."