By Tom Marshall
De la Torre,Earl Thomas Jersey, 46, has been a firm disciplinarian so far in his reign as Mexico coach. In August, he and the Mexican soccer federation suspended eight players for six months for misdemeanors involving prostitutes while preparing for the Copa America in Quito,Rob Gronkowski Jersey, Ecuador.
Previously, goalkeeper Jesus Corona was left out of Mexico´s 2011 Gold Cup squad,Tom Brady Youth Jersey, because he had launched a head-butt at an opposition trainer during a domestic league game.
“Before anything, I´m concerned that the players have character, that they are gutsy,Brian Cushing Texans Jersey,” explained former Toluca coach de la Torre,Fletcher Cox Eagles Jersey. “Of course, sporting elements are fundamental,Vernon Davis 49ers Jersey, but what really counts in a national team is the character to overcome any situation.”
The template is set for the Mexican national team and the youngsters that make up the majority of the squad that will take on Venezuela on Wednesday know exactly where they stand.
By Tom Marshall (@MexicoWorldCup)
Rafael Marquez has not featured in a squad since losing his temper and starting a brawl for New York Red Bulls in the playoff game back in October against Los Angeles Galaxy, although de la Torre has not explicitly admitted that the two facts are linked.
Related articles Mexico secures rare win in El Salvador Mexico in underwhelming win over Guyana Bueno named San Luis coachWith Marquez, Gerardo Torres and the European-based players out the squad, the youngsters must stake their claim on the field, and keep their heads off it.
Character is vital, as de la Torre explained in a press conference Tuesday before Wednesday night´s clash against Venezuela.
For Mexico coach Jose Manuel de la Torre, building a national team capable of going further than the last 16 at the World Cup in Brazil in 2014 is not just about picking players on form, ability and age.
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