Three young Mexicans to keep an eye on

Andres Guardado

Known as “the little prince,” the 23-year-old Deportivo La Coruña winger is almost certainly moving on this summer and will be hoping to catch the eyes of watching Premier League bosses. Aston Villa and Blackburn are reportedly interested, as well as Steve McClaren’s Wolfsburg and Valencia.
Was Mexico’s best player by some distance in the recent friendlies in the United States, although started on the bench for most the friendlies in Europe. Guardado is quick, inventive, a great passer and can also score. Shouldn’t be out of his depth especially as his agent says he’s looking for Champions League football next year. Price will rise a lot if he continues his recent form.Easily recognisable due to his shoulder length hair.
May start as sub depending on team formation but will be hoping to make an impact.

Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernandez

Hernandez’ granddad played in the 1954 World Cup and gave a succinct assessment of his grandson’s immediate future: he has to play well coming up to the World Cup so he has some momentum when he arrives at Manchester United.
Look for his excellent movement, boundless enthusiasm and eye for goal. Also has a massive jump.
Again, may start the competition as sub, although it would be a retrogressive move from Mexico boss Aguirre to start with Guillermo Franco.



Giovani Dos Santos

Don't judge Giovani by his stint in England. In Mexico he's highly respected and a lot of weight rests on his 21-year-old shoulders. Tricky, fast and with his future in Turkey in doubt, Giovani can re-ignite his young career in South Africa.
Coach Aguirre believes he's the spark that can propel Mexico out of the group stage.
Needs to work on scoring more goals and his final ball but he's one of those players that when he gets the ball, you expect something to happen.