América thaw on Roger Martínez, but no return to action for striker | OneFootball

Despite being in the midst of an attacking injury crisis, América will not turn to Roger Martínez for Saturday’s Clausura clash with Nexaca.

The 25-year-old tried to force a move from the club during the close season.

Martínez wanted a European club to come in for him, which did not materialise, and then left América exasperated when he refused to join MLS side Inter Miami because he wanted more financially from the deal.

He also recently rejected a move to LA Galaxy for similar reasons.

As a result, the Colombia international has been frozen out by the club and has yet to feature for Las Águilas this season.

However, with Nicolás Castillo, Henry Martín, and Federico Viñas all out injured at the moment, ESPN Mexico reported on Friday that Martínez could be in line for a shock return to action this weekend.

The network has since backtracked on that report, and now say that he will not be considered for selection.

América manager Herrera is likely to give one of his youngsters, either Arturo Román Martínez or Morrison Palma, a chance to shine up front.

Herrera also seemed to suggest that he is willing to reintegrate the outcast, but indicated that he needs approval from the hierarchy in order to do so.

“Everyone knows it. This happened on the part of the board, not even the board, by the owner,” Herrera is reported to have said, according to various outlets.

“The annoyance for the interviews Roger gave wanting to leave, was the offer and did not accept it.

“We are waiting for the directive to give us the green light.”

América would return to the top of Liga MX with a win or draw over Nexaca at the Azteca.