International snub for Valencia

Wigan winger Antonio Valencia has been left out of the Ecuador squad for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

The Latics star has paid the price for failing to give a suitable reason for his absence from last week's friendly against Colombia.

The 23-year-old would have been forced to sit out a clash with Bolivia on 6th September due to suspension, but was eligible to feature against Uruguay three days later.

However, coach Sixto Vixuete has decided to omit the talented schemer from his squad altogether.

Valencia had claimed a knee problem kept him out of action last Wednesday, only to then play a full 90 minutes for Steve Bruce's men against Chelsea on Sunday.

Regulations

"It seems he did not join us because he didn't want to," said Vizuete.

"Our friendly was played on a date Fifa set aside for these type of games and regulations must be followed.

"Now, the Ecuadorian Football Federation are following up this case with the club which owns the player's rights.

"Ecuador have left the doors of the national team open for when the real reason for his absence is clarified."

Source - Sky Sports