Future Stars - Erik Lamela

In just a few short months Erik Lamela has become an integral part of the River Plate side, and has become a target for top clubs all over Europe.

Erik who? You may ask, but this news certainly isn't a surprise to Barcelona. The Spanish giants tried to sign the midfielder at just 12 years of age, offering large sums of money and gifts to tempt the youngsters family. But when the then president of River, Jose Maria Aguilar, made similar promises the decision was made to stay in Argentina. Remember the Argentine giants aren't nicknamed Los Millionarios for nothing.

Equally adept in central midfield, on the wings or in the hole behind the striker his flexibility is a real asset. It is perhaps the latter where he excels most. Here Lamela's creativity can be brought to the fore in spectacular style, while his cleverly weighted passes can no doubt set up plenty of chances. In addition given space he can unleash some left footed thunderbolts. You won't be surprised to hear that Lamela is another on the long line to be labelled 'the next Lionel Messi.'

It is surely just a matter of time before one of latest young Argentine prodigies makes his way to Europe. With a whole host of clubs already clamouring for his signature. Whoever does clinch the signing will no doubt be on to a winner, but a move too soon could perhaps do more harm than good. Developing like he has been in Argentina could just be the best thing...for now at least.

Javier Mascherano and the modern day footballing mercenary!

In the era of no loyalty within our elite level footballers, this attitude is summed up most by non other than Javier Mascherano.

While at Argentinian side River Plate and then Brazilians Corinthians, Mascherano built up quite a reputation not just in South America but around the world.

He was an exciting young talent who chased and hassled the ball carrier tremendously, he was tipped for Europe's best clubs in a matter of years.

However after a shock switch to West Ham United along with compatriot Carlos Tevez he quickly saw he first team opportunities cut short.

After just half a season though and five appearances, Rafael Benitez brought him to Anfield assured he could rebuild his career.

The fans instantly took to the gritty ball winner, and he became a favourite in the terraces.

Now nearing a century of appearances on Merseyside, it seems his time at Liverpool is numbered.

While he should be grateful to Benitez for the 'risk' he made in buying the Argentine, he should be appreciate the club and power brokers who also took the risk and the fans who have took him into their heart.

His refusal to play in the recent defeat to Manchester City is a ludicrous way to act towards the club and fans who are STILL paying his wages despite this refusal.

It is also worth pointing out that Liverpool have turned him into Captain of his country, a situation that seemed highly unlikely during the tumultuous time at West Ham.

Manager Roy Hodgson has stated if no bid matches the clubs valuation, then he could stay.

However the fluttering eye lashed at Barcelona which started last summer are still ongoing, and with Inter Milan now in the race if he does stay it could have a hugely detrimental effect on morale.

Their now seem to be a distinct lack, if any at all, of one club men.

A quick buck among players seems to be the priority and player 'rule' the trend at clubs.