Luis Suárez elated to be back with Uruguay

Suárez celebrates his goal against Arsenal. / MIGUEL RUIZ - FCB
The blaugrana striker talks about his return to the national team after a sanction stemming from the 2014 World Cup in Brazil

FC Barcelona striker Luis Suarez will play his first official match for Uruguay since the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. One of the pillars of Luis Enrique’s vaunted side, Suárez has scored 68 goals scored in 85 matches since joining the Catalan club. Suárez spoke to the media ahead of Saturday’s 2018 World Cup qualifier between Uruguay and Brazil.

“I am very happy to be back with the national team. It’s a special feeling because of all the support I received from a lot of people,” Suárez said. “I hope to thank everyone by doing a good job on the field, by helping Uruguay win, and by making people happy,” he added.

Suárez said he felt no pressure for these qualifiers. “I’ve been working hard to contain my anxiety and nervousness to avoid any euphoria, but nobody can change the way I play,” he said. “Although I have learned to be smarter in certain situations.”

When asked about the possibility of being designated team captain, Suárez was coy.

“I will give everything on the field in any situation. I’m here to help our close-knit team.”

Luis Suárez trains with Uruguay on Tuesday. Photo: AUF