New interim Argentina coach Sergio Batista gave his first interview today as the Albiceleste number one and defended his friend and ex-boss Diego Maradona.

Batista is currently in Paraguay directing the Under-20s, but on returning to Argentina next week will be presented as the man to lead La Seleccion into their friendly against Ireland on August 11th. The 1986 World Cup winner admitted however that he is not happy with the conditions surrounding Dieguito's exit from the international scene.

"I thought that he was going to stay, the executive committee [of the AFA] must have their reasons- but Diego did the right things," Batista insisted in an interview with FoxSports. "I haven't been able to get through to Diego since but I hope to in the next few days. It all happened so quick with the decision. After the Germany game I told him that he should stay."

Batista's name has been mentioned as a possible replacement for Maradona, and 'El Checho' has a good reputation within the AFA after years of exemplary service. The coach however, who led the U-23s to Olympic gold in 2008, stated that he would have to discuss his future with AFA President Julio Grondona before commenting further.

"The AFA will decide [my future], I am going to try and do my best, I want my team to win and after we shall see... After the Olympics I had the chance and turned it down. I am a caretaker and everything is day-to-day, but I like the challenge."

The team which will face Ireland was put together by Maradona in one of his last acts in charge, and Batista admits he had no input in the selection process. He did however open the door to current international pariah Juan Roman Riquelme, who ruled himself out after a disagreement with Maradona.

"Unfortunately [Roman] had a problem with Diego. I have a friendship with him. If Roman gets fit and is playing well, of course he will have a chance of being called up," the ex-Argentinos Juniors and Godoy Cruz head coach concluded.