Delgado departs club for World Cup

Last updated : 22 April 2002 By Christian Kelly
The Agustin Delgado saga took another turn today with the Ecuadorian striker being allowed to return home to prepare or the World Cup. Delgado may well have been able to play some part in the last couple of Southampton fixtures. Delgado, although officially still injured, played in Ecuador's recent friendly international much to the surprise of his club. He is undoubtedly a key player for Ecuador and there has been considerable pressure put on him form his national coaches.

They have constantly criticised Southampton for Delgado's fitness, which is ironic since they seem quite willing to risk a further injury during a friendly which would have definitely ruled him out of the tournament.

While obviously not Delgado's fault, his injury and his transfer in general, has turned into a running joke for many Saints fans, who don't expect to see him play for the club again.

Saints were naive, or more likely just very greedy, in signing Delgado even with a knee injury. Everything since has stemmed form this. He has appeared in only two games before a recurrence of the injury ruled him out for months. The constant squabbling over the player since has done no one any credit. Another unsettling aspect has been Gordon Strachan's rather unhelpful comments. While it's great to have a sense of humour, there are occasions when resisting the urge to use it at every opportunity is the best course of action. He has made it quite clear that since he didn't sign Delgado, he's not particularly bothered whether he stays or goes. The supposed language barrier often used as an excuse is particularly baffling considering the club's slackness in addressing the situation. In public, Saints are puting a brave face on things and are hoping that Delgado's return after the World Cup will signal a new start for the player. Rupert Lowe said: "We had a long meeting after Saturday's game against Everton and talked things over with the player, his agent and the Ecuadorian doctor and physio.

"I discussed it with Gordon Strachan and with only two games left we decided the best course of action would be for him to go home so he can continue with his rehabilitation and concentrate on the World Cup.

"I think the World Cup has been a distraction for the whole of Ecuador. It is their first ever finals and they must have a great deal of difficulty concentrating on anything else.

"We have a good relationship with the Ecuadorian FA and they appreciate what we have done. Delgado is happy with the decision and has pledged to come back and show our fans what he can do.

"Everyone is comfortable with this decision. We wish him and Ecuador well in the tournament and hope he scores a lot of goals against Italy, Croatia and Mexico."

With Delgado doing well in the World Cup, don't be too surprised if Saints sell him on for a hefty profit. The initial deal smacked more of Saints wanting to market themselves in South America, and get preferential treatment in the signing of talent, than anything to do with Delgado anyway.