Inter Milan striker Mauro Icardi has received a late call-up by Argentina coach Alejandro Sabella for this month's World Cup qualifiers against Peru and Uruguay.

Icardi has received his maiden Argentina call following an injury to Barcelona forward Lionel Messi, who will miss the both games as he recovers from a thigh problem.

The 20-year-old is eligible to represent Argentina and Italy at international level as he holds dual citizenship, but he had previously stated his intention to play for La Albiceleste.

Sabella's decision to hand Icardi a chance means that Carlos Tevez remains in exile, with the youngster fighting for a place alongside Gonzalo Higuain, Sergio Aguero, Ezequiel Lavezzi and Inter teammate Rodrigo Palacio.

Argentina have already secured qualification for next summer's finals, which was booked with a 5-2 win over Paraguay last month.