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Injured Caniggia gets the call

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina -- Claudio Caniggia has been called up to Argentina's World Cup squad despite an injury that could put him out for weeks.

Monday's announcement by coach Marcelo Bielsa crowns an amazing comeback for the 35-year-old Glasgow Rangers forward who had fought his way back into Argentina's side, making his 50th international appearance against Cameroon in March.

But he has to prove his fitness following a knee injury sustained in a tackle with Celtic's Chris Sutton after 21 minutes of Saturday's Scottish Cup final, which Rangers went on to win 3-2.

"We're waiting for news of the seriousness of the injury. We have until May 21 to present the final list and until 48 hours before the competition to make changes for injuries. We are going to wait," said Bielsa.

Also in a list of 12 players confirmed in the squad so far is Roma striker Gabriel Batistuta, Argentina's all-time record scorer with 56 goals in 75 appearances. Both veterans have already played in two World Cups.

The other names will be added once the Argentine, English, Spanish, Portuguese, Brazilian and German league seasons are completed.

Caniggia made his mark at the 1990 World Cup when Argentina were beaten in the final by Germany.

He missed the 1998 World Cup but was hopeful of a trip to Japan and South Korea after getting back into the national side.

He began his career in Argentina with River Plate before making his fortune in Italy and Portugal. In 2000 he made a surprise move to Dundee in Scotland and was transferred to Rangers in June 2001.

Squad to date

Defenders Jose Chamot (AC Milan), Mauricio Pochettino (Paris St Germain), Walter Samuel (AS Roma).

Midfielders Diego Simeone (Lazio), Javier Zanetti (Inter Milan), Marcelo Gallardo (Monaco), Ariel Ortega (River Plate), Claudio Husain (River Plate).

Forwards Claudio Caniggia (Rangers), Gabriel Batistuta (AS Roma), Hernan Crespo (Lazio), Claudio Lopez (Lazio)