Argentina has announced its squad for the friendly with Italy in Rome on August 14th. The match is in honour of Argentine, Pope Francis and consists only of foreign-based players. The only real surprise is perhaps, the inclusion of Ricky Alvarez. Since leaving Velez Sarsfield in 2011 the midfielder hasn’t exactly lit up Serie A but his place in the squad will come as a boost for midfielder ahead of the new season. Jose Basanta’s fine form for Monterrey in Mexico also earns him a recall but the remainder of the squad is as expected. Erik Lamela retains his place among the forwards, in what could be a huge year for the 21-year-old. SEE THE FULL SQUAD HERE….

Goalkeepers: Oscar Ustari (Almería), Sergio Romero (Sampdoria), Mariano Andujar (Catania)

Defenders: Hugo Campagnaro (Inter), Federico Fernandez (Napoli), Ezequiel Garay (Benfica), Marcos Rojo (Sporting Lisbon), Pablo Zabaleta (Manchester City), Fabricio Coloccini (Newcastle), Cristian Ansaldi (Rubin Kazan), José Basanta (Monterrey)

Midfielders: Javier Mascherano (Barcelona), Angel Di María (Real Madrid), Ever Banega (Valencia), Augusto Fernandez (Celta Vigo), Ricardo Alvarez (Inter), Lucas Biglia (Lazio)

Forwards: Lionel Messi (Barcelona), Rodrigo Palacio (Inter), Gonzalo Higuain (Napoli), Ezequiel Lavezzi (PSG), Erik Lamela (Roma)