World Cup 2018: 5 hidden gems who could shine in Russia

The countdown is on, the most prestigious footballing competition in the world will be showcased in little time. It will be a platform for the lesser-known players to showcase their talents and perform in front of millions.

But who should you keep a close eye on? Here are five hidden gems to watch out for in the 2018 World Cup.

#5 Hwang Hee-Chan (South Korea)

South Korea's Hwang Hee-Chan will lead the line for his country and provide an attacking threat up front

The 22-year-old South Korean striker netted 12 times in 35 games last season for Austrian side RB Salzburg. He is the latest player to emerge from their famous academy, following in the footsteps of the likes of Naby Keita, Sadio Mane and Kevin Kampl. He is one to watch out for this summer, with a number of Premier League, including Tottenham and a number of European clubs showing interest. It was recently reported that Borussia Dortmund have joined the race for the £13 million-rated forward.

#4 Alexsandar Golovin (Russia)

Alexsandar Golovkin will have to be on

fine

form should Russia have any hope of reaching the last-16

Golovin has made over 15 appearances for his national team, having been handed his debut after turning 19 years old. Now 21, he has been an influential midfielder for CSKA Moscow the past two seasons. He is the only player from his country's Under-17 Championship winning side of 2013, to make the breakthrough to the first-team. Former Manchester United star Andrei Kanchelskis, believes he would be a hit at Arsenal and they should swoop for the player who has one Russian Premier League title to his name.

#3 Rodrigo Bentacur (Uruguay)

No doubt clubs will be casting an eye toward Juventus' Rodrigo Bentacur, should he shine in the tournament

The 20-year-old joined Juventus ahead of last season, and was part of the deal which saw Carlos Tevez return to his homeland and join Boca Juniors in 2015. He is versatile, meaning he can play in a number of positions across the midfield, powerful and has a great passing ability.

Moving to the Serie A club for €9.5m, this was then followed up by an international call-up. In his first major World Cup involvement, he could be pivotal in his side reaching the last-16.

#2 Giovani Lo Celso (Argentina)

Giovani Los Celso of Paris Saint-Germain will head to Russia with Argentina hoping to play a vital role

Los Celso was brought to PSG from Rosario Central for €9 million in 2016, but spent the remainder of the 2016-17 season back in Argentina. He has immense technical ability and has a keen eye for goal, not just a perfect pass. The 22-year-old has fitted in well at the French champions and become an important squad player since making his Ligue 1 debut back in April.

#1 Henry Onyekuru (Nigeria)

Everton's Henry Onyekuru, who was on-loan at Anderlecht last season, could spearhead Nigeria's attack

Having had an impressive spell at Eupen, the 20-year-old made the move to Everton for £7 million at the end of the 2016-17 season, before heading back to Belgium to join Anderlecht on-loan. He poses a constant threat and made his Nigeria debut in June last year. The fact he is versatile could earn him a starting berth for the Super Eagles.