Rondon puts cap decisions on hold
SALOMON RONDON insists he has no regrets about turning his back on the chance to face superstar Lionel Messi.
Everton’s new striker sacrificed the opportunity to lead Venezuela’s attack against Argentina in a vital World Cup qualifier last week to seal a move from Chinese club Dalian.
Rondon was given official permission by his nation’s football bosses to also miss games against Peru and Paraguay.
Venezuela lost all three qualifiers and prop up the table.
Rondon faces another agonising decision next month when Venezuela’s campaign resumes against Brazil – and the club v country row that raged during the week over players refusing to travel to South America is sure to break out again.
Ahead of today’s clash with Burnley, Rondon said: “Every player in the world loves to play for their national team.
“In this case, I had many issues with my Chinese team so I had to wait until I had decided my future.
The national team called me but I told them I had the chance to go to another team so I needed to wait.
“I love to play for my national team, whether it’s against Argentina and Messi or any country.
“In October we will have to make another decision. I have to decide what is best for me.”
Rondon has linked up for a third time with Rafa Benitez (above) after playing for Everton’s new boss at both Newcastle and Dalian.
Yet he first endeared himself to the Goodison fans when he was playing for West Brom in January 2018 and a clash with James Mccarthy left the Everton star with a double leg break.
Rondon broke down in tears on the pitch and said: “It was the worst moment in my career. I never want to see any player suffer.”