Argentina star’s mum explains why she refuses to sing anti-England songs after u-turn

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Alexis Mac Allister’s mum will refuse to join in with any anti-

England

chants at the World Cup due to her UK-born granddaughter. The Three Lions will take on

Argentina

in the semi finals on Wednesday evening in what is the latest chapter in a long-running international rivalry.

Argentina players have already been spotted

singing about the Falkland Islands

ahead of the game, while some supporters have shared video montages of the conflict on social media.

And while that rivalry is expected to be fierce in Atlanta on Wednesday, one person who won’t be joining in is

Mac Allister

’s mum, Silvina Riela. Having previously held a negative opinion of England, she has completely changed her mind following the midfielder’s spells with

Brighton

and

Liverpool

.

“I had a rather negative impression of England, at least regarding living there, due to the cold and the lack of sunshine. In my ignorance, I used to say, ‘I hope we never end up in England,’” she told Buenos Aires' Radio Mitre.

“But now that I've experienced it, everything has changed, even the way I see the people. I expected to encounter cold, distant people, but they are actually very polite and respectful. We were welcomed by a country that has treated us in the best possible way.”

Meanwhile, she has also confirmed that her English-born granddaughter is the main reason why she doesn’t join in with any chants against the country. She added: “There is that situation involving England, stemming somewhat from the history regarding the Malvinas Islands. As (Argentina manager Lionel) Scaloni said, it's just a football match.

“My granddaughter was born in England. So, when everyone sings, ‘Whoever doesn't jump is English,’ I stay seated with her. I can't join in on that; I don't participate in that part.”

Mac Allister, 27, has once again been key in Argentina’s run to the semi finals in the

USA

,

Mexico

Canada

, the Liverpool midfielder having started every game but one. He also got the South American side off to the perfect start with a goal in their quarter-final win against

Switzerland

He has also spoken out on the upcoming game. Mac Allsiter said: “We understand the context behind it, all the rivalry stemming from past events and history.

“Obviously, we also realise that this isn't the fault of their people or ours, but rather those in positions of power, so we shouldn't conflate the two.

“I have a lot of respect for (England); I've been there for six years now, and they've always treated me incredibly well. From a footballing perspective, there's no doubt they want to beat us at all costs, and it's going to be a very tough match.

“So now, the task is to prepare the best we can; while there is mutual respect, it's going to be a great battle out on the pitch.”