Maradona blasts critics after World Cup qualification

Diego Maradona took a shot at the media after the win against Uruguay (0-1) that ensured Argentina`s World Cup ticket. `I want to say that all the people that criticised me and treated me as garbage can eat their words.`

Mario Bolatti`s late goal made an end to all the doubts and secured a place in South Africa next summer.

Under fire boss Maradona hailed his players but blasted his critics after the last chapter of a historic qualification route.

‘This one is for the Argentine people. I thank the squad,` an emotional Maradona told at a press conference following the match.

`This victory is for the people that trusted in us, but it’s not for those that said lies about us.

I am not going to name them but they know who they are,` `El Pelusa` told the press.

Asked if he would still be Argentina boss at the World Cup finals, Maradona answered: `I don’t know, I have to talk with (Argentine football executive) Julio Grondona and then I will decide.`

The Argentine legend also confirmed his first four players for the World Cup squad.

Javier Mascherano, Jonas Gutierrez, Martin Palermo and Mario Bolatti can pack their bags for the World Cup.

Mascherano isn`t a surprising name because ever since Maradona became the national coach, he praised the Liverpool midfielder saying things like Argentina are `Mascherano and ten more.`

Maradona`s confidence in Jonas Gutierrez has a different reason. The Newcastle United midfielder has earned himself a place in the team due to his fighting spirit while Palermo and Bolatti scored the crucial goals against Peru and Uruguay.