Up and Comers: Group A

Young Players Who’s Stock Is on the Rise

One of the greatest pleasures of observing the FIFA World Cup is having an opportunity to see young players perform on the world stage. Many have already earned positions on elite club teams, but for just as many this is the one chance they have to impress. I will try to bring focus to the hidden jewels that may be fighting for the spotlight this month.

The men to watch in Group A:

Giovani Dos Santos (Mexico, Tottenham Hotspur) Age 21

Dos Santos has established himself as the most important figure in the Mexican attack. He possesses sprinter speed and shows confidence on the ball. In addition he is unafraid to let a shot ripe from mid-range positions with great accuracy. Dos Santos is very dangerous playing on the right side and cutting into the middle to unleash a strong left-footed shot. Tottenham Hotspur loaned this young man to the Turkish club Galatasaray for the last half of the domestic season, but if he continues to make a good showing in the World Cup, the Spurs will surely want him back in the first team.

Javier Hernandez (Mexico, Manchester United) Age 22

Nicknamed Chicharito, ‘Little Green Pea’, Hernandez has had a dream year. Hernandez ended the season as top scorer in the Mexican domestic league and earned a transfer to English powerhouse Manchester United.

Siphiwe Tshabalala (South Africa, Kaizer Chiefs) Age 25

This Soweto-born attacking figure plans on making a name for himself during this tournament. Tshabalala is a short compact winger who has the speed to burn defenses and he been known to produce spectacular goals. He has already snagged the opening goal of the World Cup with a stunning strike from a fast South African counterattack. Europe will keep him in their sights if he can keep producing the thrills.

Fernando Muslera (Uruguay, Lazio) Age 23

Muslera is known to Lazio followers as Castorino or the 'Little Beaver' and has been a bright spot at goalkeeper in the Italian league. He did not cement his position as the number one keeper for the national team until late in the qualifying stages. This skinny giant has the speed and agility to be a great shot stopper.

Luis Suárez (Uruguay, Ajax Amsterdam) Age 23

Suarez is a lightning fast goal poacher scored more goals than any other player across the world last season with 49 goals for Ajax. Granted he is based in the Dutch league, but if he can handle the pressure of the world stage and bag a few goals, people will take notice.

Hugo Lloris (France, Olympique Lyonnais) Age 23

This 6ft 2in goalkeeper is admired for his cool head and mature decision-making, Lloris has had success taking Lyon deep into the UEFA Champions League tournament. He has been linked to many of the top European clubs and may earn a quality transfer if he can keep France alive in the World Cup.