World Cup 2018: 5 world-class registas expected to shine in Russia

#4 Ever Banega (Argentina)

Banega will be expected to share creative duties with Messi

A pass master who on his day can be almost unplayable, Banega is the one man in the Albiceleste team expected to help shift the creative burden away from Lionel Messi’s shoulders.

The Sevilla midfielder is a majestic passer of the ball who is adept at recycling possession, slowing or quickening the tempo depending on what the game needs as well as being blessed with the ability to drive forward and support the attack or stay back and prompt from the centre of the pitch.

A tough competitor who is no stranger to fulfilling defensive functions, his rugged nature or grinta means that coach Jorge Sampoli should be able to trust his defensive instincts and play him in a two-man midfield to allow the forwards, license to roam.

His presence in the centre of the Argentine midfield means that the Albiceleste will be able to field four attacking players in a game where goals are needed or in the big, tight games, he may act as the central shield for an extra midfielder who could drive on to support the attack.

The wingers; Angel Di Maria, Cristian Pavon, and Eduardo Salvio would also benefit from Banega’s vision and passes as they would be able to stretch opposing defences better with their runs.