STAPLETON JUMPS TO SEBA'S DEFENCE

Last updated : 12 June 2002 By Editor

Frank Stapleton says the criticism from the Argentinian media has been unjustified.

"First and foremost they are looking for a scapegoat because they lost the game to England and there is such a big rivalry between the countries," Stapleton said. "I think they are looking for somebody to blame and because he was taken off for whatever reason, they have picked on him."

"If Veron says he is injured then there is no reason to doubt him, but the press there are just like they are here," Stapleton added. "When a result or a performance doesn't go right then they are looking for somebody to blame. He happens to be the one on this occasion and it is up to the coach to put the record straight and tell everybody he isn't fit and that is why he is not playing against Sweden."