Cambiasso optimistic over World Cup chances

Inter midfielder Esteban Cambiasso is still hopeful of receiving a call-up to Argentina’s FIFA World Cup squad.

Cambiasso has not represented his country since July 2011, but a knee injury to Boca Juniors midfielder Fernando Gago has opened the door slightly for the 33-year-old ahead of this year’s showpiece in Brazil.

After helping his side to a 2-0 Serie A win at Parma on Saturday, Cambiasso said he was hoping to preserve his form in the build-up to the tournament.

“Do I have World Cup hopes now that Gago is injured? I’m hopeful, but certainly not because of his injury, but rather for my club performances,” he told Inter’s official website.

“I hope Fernando makes it to the tournament since he’s an important player.”

Inter consolidated fifth spot in the table with their victory and now hold a five-point cushion over Parma and Milan in the race for a UEFA Europa League spot.

“Parma are a good team and also made things difficult for us in Milan (during a 3-3 draw in December),” said Cambiasso.

“By the end of the first half you could tell it was a great game for anyone who had been watching, especially if you were a neutral supporter.

“During half-time I said I hoped it would continue to go that way, but at the end we took the three points.”

The midfielder continued: “The team worked hard and we’re hoping to continue this way. We’ve found consistency with these two away results (following a win last week at Sampdoria). Now we’re hoping to do something positive at home, where our own fans certainly deserve it.”

Inter host Napoli on Saturday, followed by a European six-pointer against Milan in the Derby della Madonnina.