The Argentina squad has been rocked ahead of their Autumn International with Scotland following the death of one of the players’ girlfriends.

Back-row Marcos Kremer’s partner Sofia Catalina Pozzi was diagnosed with leukemia last year, and died suddenly on Monday, aged just 23.

Edinburgh centre Juan Pablo Socino, himself an Argentinean internationalist, said: “Marcos Kremer went back home while the team was in Ireland because he found out his girlfriend was diagnosed with leukaemia.

“She passed away yesterday (Monday) so it’s a big blow to the team. They had to change their week. They took a day off [on Monday], when it should have been later in the week.

“So that, on the back of the bad results, is going to bring the team together and make them want to show their best.“

Socino revealed he’d caught up with the Pumas yesterday and said they’re determined to put in a performance to honour Kremer and his late girlfriend.

‘They are going to try to produce their best performance to show their support.”

For that reason, Socino has tipped Argentina to emerge victorious on Saturday.

”I think Argentina should win,” the four-cap centre said.

“They have got a big point to prove, as well. They have played some really good rugby so far in the autumn, although results haven’t gone their way.”

And Kremer posted an emotional tribute to his girlfriend on his Instagram account which, translated into English, reads: “Rest in peace love of my life. I still don’t understand, lead me in everything. I hope I can find you soon and thank you for making me so happy.”