Romania boss issues furious Ianis Hagi selection defence

Hagi junior is back playing for Rangers after 13 months out with a serious knee injury, but Ibrox boss Michael Beale is easing him back slowly with mostly sub appearances.

He wasn't included for Romania's squad for their matches against Andorra and Belarus and that infuriated the former Barcelona and Real Madrid legend who won 124 caps for Romania and managed them too.

Hagi senior accused Iordanescu of claiming his son wasn't good enough and the matter has erupted into a huge row in Romania.

However, Iordanescu has defended his choices and insisted he will do things his way.

He said: "Regarding the criticism I have received, it is not true that the door to the national team will be closed to anyone, but it is also true that I have been disappointed with how some have treated both the national team and their own talent in recent years.

"Romania's qualification to the Euros goes beyond any name and person. That's why I too will ignore any attacks or pressurising during the qualifying campaign.

"I have monitored many players for a long time ahead of this squad. Not only those in the national team, but those I have previously worked with at youth level.

"Of course, I would have liked to have no medical absences, but unfortunately there are footballers who are injured or who are in the recovery period or are not yet at their maximum physical capacity.

"I am convinced that the only way Romania will reach the Euros is through total commitment. That's why only those who show day by day that they want to get better will play. And only those who are connected with the heart, mind, talent and work for the national team.

"And although I always have faith in our footballers and their potential, now we have few engaged in strong leagues or continental competitions.

"I only want those who deserve to wear the Romanian shirt and will give 100 per cent for the team."