Mascherano: Maradona inspired us

ARGENTINA captain Javier Mascherano revealed he and his team-mates were inspired by the sight of Diego Maradona on the bench as the new manager’s reign got off to a winning start against Scotland.

“I think it’s a new era,” said Mascherano. “It was very important to win. I think we played well in the first half. The second half, we needed to fight. We fought, so we are really happy. It’s a good start; we are very proud.

“You see Maradona on the bench coaching, it’s fantastic for us.