Alexis Mac Allister is mentally ready to play for Brighton against Everton but a final decision will be made on his fitness, boss Roberto De Zerbi said after his return to training following Argentina’s World Cup victory
Brighton head coach Roberto De Zerbi believes World Cup winner Alexis Mac Allister is mentally ready to face Everton but will make a late decision on whether he is fit enough.
The Argentina midfielder returned from celebrations in his homeland following their victory over France in Qatar two weeks ago to a rapturous welcome from staff and teammates.
But De Zerbi has yet to decide whether to throw the 24-year-old straight back into Premier League action.
Brighton celebrated the return of Alexis Mac Allister after winning the World Cup in Qatar
‘Mentally, Alexis will definitely be able to play,’ the Seagulls boss told a press conference.
‘Physically, I’m not sure but we will see tomorrow (Tuesday) morning.’
Mac Allister was applauded by members of the club’s staff and hugged team-mates including captain Lewis Dunk, before being seen holding up a replica version of the World Cup trophy while the blue and white tickertape, reflecting the color of Argentina, was released.
The midfielder could return to his club when Brighton face Everton on Tuesday night
Mac Allister played a big role as Argentina won the World Cup in Qatar last month
Mac Allister was due to return for Saturday’s FA Cup third round visit to Middlesbrough but has returned to the club earlier, such is his eagerness to return to action.
An Argentina flag was also seen draped over a table while images celebrating Mac Allister’s World Cup performances were shown on the screen.
Mac Allister came into Lionel Scaloni’s Argentina side after Saudi Arabia upset them in their opening group game.
Roberto De Zerbi says a final decision will be made on whether Mac Allister is fit to face Everton
He started their remaining six matches en route to glory, scoring his first international goal in the win against Poland and establishing a great understanding with Lionel Messi.
He set up Angel Di Maria for Argentina’s second goal in the final, which looked to have won them their first World Cup crown since 1986 before France’s spectacular comeback.
Premier League sides such as Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United, along with Juventus and Atletico Madrid, have all been linked with a player whose value has soared in Qatar.
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