Tevez was the focal point of Basile`s side in the opening World Cup qualifying matches with Venezuela and Chile, both of which were won 2-0 by Argentina.

The 23-year-old was substituted in both fixtures after failing to score, but, despite Argentina`s riches in the striking department Basile has maintained the Manchester United ace is first choice.

After Tuesday's 2-0 win over Venezuela, Basile said: "My main forward, the number nine shirt, at this moment, is Tevez. There are some style differences with other players, but I always field the players I like most."

Tevez was buoyed by the support.

He told Clarin newspaper: "Considering that competition for the starting positions is big because there are a lot of great players in my position, I'm happy, because it's a vote of confidence from the coach.

"To play at number nine you don't have to be big. You just have to work hard, play well and try to do your best for the good of the team. You cannot think about just scoring. Goals will come.

"To hear the coach say I will be the team's number nine is a bonus for me. It motivates me a lot. It's a very important sign of support to me."

Tevez insists he is not concerned by his current lack of potency in front of goal.

"I'm sure goals will come soon," he added. "I don't worry - I would worry if the team lose and I don't score, but we've clinched two good results in the opening qualifiers."