Javier Mascherano is on a mission to win Olympic gold for Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez.
The Argentinian midfielder lines up against Everton’s Nigerian striker Victor Anichebe in tomorrow's football final in Beijing (kick-off 5am).
Mascherano has played a key role in his nation's passage to the final and is desperate to secure a second successive gold following Argentina’s triumph in Athens four years ago.
The 24-year-old Anfield star could have been denied the opportunity to defend his medal following a ruling that allowed clubs to withhold their players from Olympic duty.
However, Benitez opted not to recall him and Mascherano is eternally grateful for his manager’s support.
"If I win, I’ll dedicate my success to Rafa," he said.
"He's a very important person in my life. I hope to God I can take another gold to Liverpool."
The Argentinian midfielder lines up against Everton’s Nigerian striker Victor Anichebe in tomorrow's football final in Beijing (kick-off 5am).
Mascherano has played a key role in his nation's passage to the final and is desperate to secure a second successive gold following Argentina’s triumph in Athens four years ago.
The 24-year-old Anfield star could have been denied the opportunity to defend his medal following a ruling that allowed clubs to withhold their players from Olympic duty.
However, Benitez opted not to recall him and Mascherano is eternally grateful for his manager’s support.
"If I win, I’ll dedicate my success to Rafa," he said.
"He's a very important person in my life. I hope to God I can take another gold to Liverpool."
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