West Ham United star Lanzini savours ‘amazing’ Argentina call-up

West Ham United ace Manuel Lanzini is aiming to rise to the occasion when he jets off to represent his country for the first time at senior level.

The 24-year-old attacking midfielder is set to share a dressing room with superstars such as Lionel Messi, Paulo Dybala and Javier Mascherano next month after being called up by Argentina for their upcoming glamour friendly against Brazil in Melbourne on June 9 and subsequent trip to Singapore four days later.

Lanzini, who scored eight goals in 39 appearances for the Hammers this term, is delighted with his international nod and is determined to make the most of a landmark career moment.

“I’m very happy for this,” said Lanzini, who is joined by fellow Premier League players Sergio Romero and Nicolas Otamendi in the Argentina squad – although Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero was left out.

(Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)

“To get a call from Argentina is a surprise, but now I’ll go to Argentina and relax and then I’ll concentrate on the games.

“Of course, I am very excited. It’s very good to play with Argentina and with my country. It’s amazing and I’m looking forward to playing with amazing players.

“I feel ready because the coach [Jorge] Sampaoli called me for the team and I am happy for this.”