BUENOS AIRES. July 6: Argentina’s former World Cupwinning skipper Diego Maradona on Monday blasted the side’s weak showing at the Copa America, but defended Martin Palermo after the striker missed a hattrick of penalties against Colombia, reports AFP. ‘

Smarting from his country's 3-0 hammering by the Colombians late Sunday. Maradona told Argentine radio that the two-times world champions were losing their pre-eminence in the game "after fighting so much to rise so high” in days when he was terrifying the best defences around.

But the controversial 38-year-old absolved Palermo from any blame.

Boca Juniors' Palermo, attracting huge interest from a host of Spanish clubs, became the first Argentine international to miss three spot-kicks in a match, blasting one against the bar, one over and having one saved against the Colombians on an extraordinary evening.

"At feast he had the guts and courage to ask to take them." said Maradona.

"Rather than blame Palermo one has to ask who is, running the Argentine set-up (coach Marcelo) Bielsa or (Argentine Federation president Julio) Grondona?" Maradona added.

The former star blasted the absence of European-based

stars Gabriel Batistuta. Hernan Crespo, Juan Sebastian Veron and Claudio Lopez, who were less than enthusiastic about joining the squad.

And Maradona blasted the current generation' of internationals. for in his view, lacking the necessary pride in the national colours.

"There is no time for. holidaying or saying one is tired. People are right to get at those who aren't playing in the Copa

America.

"Enough of this nonsense that 'my toe hurts or my head hurts'. The pride of each and every one of them is at stake," said Maradona, in clear reference to the missing big names.

Maradona also revealed that, despite the result, he preferred the team which lost to Colombia than that which

started the Copa by beating Ecuador 3-1. Palermo scored two goals in that match.

Argentina must beat Uruguay if their remaining match to be guaranteed a place in the 'quarter-finals although they could still qualify as one of the best third-placed teams if they lose the Battle of the River Plate.

Ironically Uruguay's new coach is another Argentinian legend Daniel Passarella. although he is letting youth team coach Victor Pua take charge of the team for the Copa as he prepares their World Cup qualifying campaign.