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Chile coach Pizzi defends Eugenio Mena inclusion after drink-drive charge

Chile coach Juan Antonio Pizzi has defended his decision to keep Eugenio Mena in his Confederations Cup squad despite the player facing drink-driving charges.

Mena, 28, arrived in Russia with the rest of the squad on Tuesday.

La Tercera reported that he was arrested on Sunday evening while on his way to Santiago after being caught speeding. A breathalyser test reportedly revealed he was over the alcohol limit.

The defender, who plays for Brazilian club Sport Recife on loan from Cruzeiro, was allowed to travel to Russia but will appear in court once the Confederations Cup is over.

"Our vision is very clear -- we must all answer for our actions," Pizzi told Chile AS.

"After evaluating the situation, we decided not to modify anything. We will speak internally about certain things, but it will not affect anything."

Copa America winners Chile face Russia in a friendly on Friday, but Pizzi has not confirmed whether Arsenal star Alexis Sanchez will feature.

"Alexis will begin training on Thursday," Pizzi said. "Will he play on Friday against Russia? We shall see how he arrives on Thursday, but I don't think he will be ready by then."