Mexico's under-23 coach, Luis Fernando Tena, has previously said that Hernandez – or Chicharito as he is also known – was a serious contender for the squad he will take to London.

"Everyone thinks of him, obviously – he plays in England," he said.

"We can't say if he is going to be that player.

"He's a great candidate."

Unfortunately, the Games' close proximity to the start of the Premier League season has meant that Ferguson and fellow English league managers are concerned about the effect particpation could have on their players' fitness levels.

FIFA have, however, ruled that clubs whose players are called up must release them.

But Sir Alex seems to have won a significant battle regarding Hernandez.

The Manchester United boss told the club's website: "We've agreed with the Mexican Football Association that he is going to get the rest he needs."

Sir Alex added that the player, who had a superb first year in the Premier League for the reigning champions, suffered this season because he was part of the Mexico side which won last year's Gold Cup.


"His form last season was fantastic," said Sir Alex.

"He's found the second year more difficult, but a lot of that is down to not having a summer break for three years and playing every summer for his country."

Héctor González Iñarritu, the Mexican Football Association's national team's director, added: "We had a lengthy discussion of two hours and Ferguson explained that he was sorry, but Chicharito would be overworked.

"After that, we sent a letter, but the response was the same – Ferguson refused to allow Chicharito to participate in the Olympics.

"But we accept the decision of the club because they protect the player and his club."

Hernandez would have been one of Mexico's three over age players if selected for the squad, which kicks off in Group B against South Korea on July 26.

El Tri also face Gabon and Switzerland in the group phase, and stand a strong chance of competing for a medal at the Olympics.

At the last Olympics in Beijing, Barcelona tried to prevent Leo Messi from competing for Argentina, though they eventually decided to allow the forward to take part in the gold medal winning team's campaign.

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]


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