5 under the radar players set to light up the Copa America

A feast of fast-paced flair-filled football is set to be thrust upon us in just over a week, when the Copa America kicks into action in Chile.

The likes of Lionel Messi, Neymar and Alexis Sanchez are sure to be the big draws, but we don’t need to tell you about them.

So, as Uruguay finalise their preparations for a title defence, we’ve picked out five lesser know players who could thrust themselves onto the world stage for their nations.

Everton Ribeiro – Brazil

In an inexperienced squad that features just five players who have more than 25 caps, the Ah Ahli attacker stands out as one of interest.

Named Brazil’s Player of the Year in 2013 when putting in a fantastic season for Cruizeiro, Ribeiro came to the attention of numerous Premier League clubs.

He opted for the Middle East and a move to Dubai, where he has thrived since.

Derlis Gonzalez – Paraguay

Conversely Paraguay’s personnel list is one full of experience, with Basel’s Derlis Gonzalez their only player younger than 21.

A solid season for the Swiss outfit, where he was a master provider, chipping in with eight assists, as well as a trio of goals in the Champions League could mean he is the future of his nation’s attacks.

But with the country ranked as 40/1 outsiders his stay in the tournament could be brief.

Jhon Murillo – Venezuela

That same could be said for Jhon Murillo’s participation with Venezuela the biggest price of the lot at 66/1 to triumph.

Making his name in his home country for Zamora, netting eight times in 22 matches in the league, it was some smart performances in the Copa Libertadores that saw others taking interest.

A move to Benfica last month means he could be a common fixture in European football in years to come.

Angelo Henriquez – Chile

A name Manchester United and Wigan fans may be familiar with; Henriquez has flourished in the last year.

Sent out on loan to Dinamo Zagreb, the 21-year-old found the net 21 times in 25 matches for the Croatian outfit, as they romped to another domestic title.

With eight goals in his last five matches, he could barely come into this in better form.

Jose Giminez – Uruguay

He may not be one to boast impressive goalscoring records, but Giminez could be an exciting talent at the other end of the pitch.

Tipped up to be one of the under the radar stars of the World Cup in Brazil, he featured in all three of Uruguay’s group matches.

The Atletico man has established himself as a mainstay at the heart of the Vicente Calderon defence and could be a big player for his nation.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.

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