Alexis Mac Allister says there is no time to reflect on his progress at the World Cup. But he is relishing life as a regular in the Argentina midfield. The Albion man is expected to start for the fourth successive game as his nation face the Netherlands tomorrow. He was brought into the side after the shock opening defeat by Saudi Arabia and caught the eye with busy midfield performances – and a vital goal against Poland. Speaking ahead of the quarter-finals,
Alexis Mac Allister told media: “Have I had time to think about what is happening? Not really. In the future, I will reflect a little more. It is difficult right now with so much going on and so much that is being played at the moment, but obviously I am very excited and I am very happy. I try to do things in the best way to help my team-mates. I have been feeling very good and I hope to continue like this. When I was abroad, I always worked to be here. I am very grateful because Lionel (Scaloni, head coach) gave me the chance to play, to participate in this World Cup.”
There were suggestions in the Argentinean media Mac Allister was affected by fatigue in the 2-1 win over Australia in the last 16. He played his part without scaling the heights of performance against Poland which saw Lionel Messi hand over his man of the match award to the Albion star. Mac Allister himself believes the Aussies made life tough but can see the benefits of almost a clear week between matches this time.
Alexis Mac Allister said: “It was a very difficult game. They pressed very well, they closed the spaces for us. In the first half, it was perhaps a bit difficult for us, although in general terms we managed well, and we won. These moments of rest are very important. Against Australia, we played with a few days’ rest. These four or five days will serve for us to rest and focus on the next game.”
Mac Allister is being supported by his family and girlfriend in Qatar
Alexis Mac Allister said: “We are very excited to be able to continue advancing in the World Cup. We know we have a good team but all the games are difficult. We have a team with personality and the peace of mind to move the ball to play how we want.”
