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Hat-trick a reward for my patience: Saviola
Saviola was left out of the 2002 World Cup squad altogether and has been used sparingly as a substitute in matches since.
Argentine striker Javier Saviola said his Copa America hat-trick in the 6-1 win over Ecuador on Wednesday had repaid his patience after being repeatedly overlooked by coach Marcelo Bielsa.
"I'm very happy about this moment," the player known as the Rabbit told reporters on Thursday. "It's a reward."
Bielsa has often been reluctant to field the 22-year-old Barcelona striker, usually preferring Hernan Crespo.
Saviola was left out of the 2002 World Cup squad altogether and has been used sparingly as a substitute in matches since.
However, Crespo has been left out of the Copa America squad, apparently because he is not fully fit, and Saviola has jumped at the chance given to him.
"If I hadn't liked one of the coach's decisions, there would have been controversies and I wouldn't be here," Saviola said when asked if he had ever become frustrated.
"That was my best game for Argentina because of the result and the three goals," he said.
"If we can play like that again, Argentina will do well."
He added: "I would rather be champion than leading goal scorer."
Saviola has also struggled to win a first-team place at Barcelona, despite often scoring important goals when coming on as a substitute.
"I don't think that what I do here has anything to do with my future," he said.
"They know me well, they know how I play and I'm thinking about the national team while I'm here, not about Barcelona."
