Boca Juniors coach Julio Cesar Falcioni stated that Martin Palermo remained in his plans as the starting centre forward, despite the club legend struggling for both form and goals in 2011.
‘El Titan’ failed to hit the net again on Sunday in a win over Estudiantes and equalled his longest ever run without scoring, which now stands at 748 minutes. To make matters worse the 37-year-old’s second half replacement Lucas Viatri hit the winning goal with minutes left on the clock and took the man of the match award, putting real pressure on Palermo’s place.
Falcioni however dismissed rumours that Martin would be stepping aside for Viatri, and assured that he was untouchable as a starter.
“Of course Palermo is going to start. Lucas is doing well, but Martin is the captain and first choice,” ‘El Pelusa’ told La Red on Monday evening, to leave no doubt who would be lining up next week against Lanus – available to watch on Sunday via www.liveprimeradivision.tv.
The trainer moved on to praise the former Albiceleste striker, and insisted his decision to put Palermo in the side has nothing to do with sentimentality.
“I respect his day-to-day work on the training ground, which is an example for everybody. I always try to respect history, but I also live in the present.
