LOAN Celt Marcelo Saracchi’s hopes of playing for Uruguay in next summer’s World Cup Finals have been given a massive boost.
The 27-year-old left-back has been handed a surprise international call-up by head coach Marcelo Bielsa for the friendlies against the Dominican Republic on Friday in Kuala Lumpur and Uzbekistan in Malacca three days later.
The former Leeds United manager has been impressed by reports concerning the form of Saracchi since he arrived at the champions on a season-long temporary deal from Boca Juniors in the summer.
UP AND AT ‘EM…Marcelo Saracchi outjumps Kilmarnock’s David Watson in Celtic’s recent 2-1 win at Rugby Park.
The last of the resolute defender’s nine international appearances came in a 1-1 World Cup qualifier against Brazil just over a year ago.
Brendan Rodgers brought in Saracchi as cover for Kieran Tierney after Greg Taylor opted to quit the club at the end of his contract and join Greek Super League side PAOK.
The Uruguayan has started three Premiership games for the Hoops and was in at the kick-off for Sunday’s 3-2 comeback win over Motherwell at Parkhead.
Convincing performances for his country in the two challenge games could open the door to the World Cup Finals for Saracchi.
