Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano wants to play for Argentina in the Beijing Olympics.

"It is a difficult situation," Mascherano said of his wish to try to help Argentina retain the title won in Athens four years ago. "It's very important for any footballer to win the Olympics.

"I know that Liverpool has a big game around when I have to go, but we will decide with the manager."

And if Liverpool say no?

"We didn't talk about this because we had big games but now we have time. I want to play for my country."