The Argentine Connection.

Of late a lot of talent has been coming out of Argentina, with the kind of youngsters they have got it won't be foolish to say they have a world cup heading their way in the next few years... as the European clubs dig into the Albiceleste gold rush, lets have a look at the young prodigies:

LIONEL MESSI

Some would call him an established player by now, with an assured spot in the Barcelona starting 11, but the fact that he hasn't played much for his country and still has to win big on the international stage will have him hungry to win something for his country.

CARLOS TEVEZ

Another regular, single handedly won Argentina gold in the last Olympics, but lest we forget, he still is only 24 and has a lot of years to serve his country. Sir Alex might not regret signing Torres after all...

FRANCO DI SANTO

Chelsea fans will be drooling watching him play in their reserves side, but after all, who wouldn't? He is tall, strong and is a dead eye in front of goal, with great vision and positioning skills he is every goalkeeper's nightmare.

SERGIO AGUERO

When Torres left Atletico for greener pastures, people wondered, who would fill in his shoes? Well they have the answer now, "Kun" Aguero is the next big thing in Madrid nowadays, this pint sized powerhouse already won the U-20 FIFA World Cup with Argentina and was the team's captain and best player... Atletico have found the perfect replacement for El Nino.

EVER BANEGA

When Boca Juniors clashed with AC Milan, a certain Banega was the star midfielder locking horns with Seedorf and Kaka. His performances with Boca, saw him being picked up by Valencia in January. Hope Valencia put him to good use.

FERNANDO GAGO

Another Boca man, his holding ability in midfield was compared to that of the Madrid legend and compatriot Fernando Redondo. And so far, he has lived up to his billing. He plys his trade at Real with great success.

GONZALO HIGUAIN

For every Boca prodigy there has to be a River prodigy, and Higuain was one. Signed with Gago by Real, Capello's finding has proved to be very handy this season, scoring crucial goals and setting up goals, looks like Gonzalo has finally come of age.

EZEQUIEL LAVEZZI

Napolitans love Argentines. After the legendary Maradona, it is Lavezzi's turn to be loved. He has proven himself to be a real good striker scoring the first hat-trick by a Napoli player in 14 years... this boy is bound for greatness.

OSCAR USTARI

Some would argue that he has had a terrible season, but every player has one. Oscar is on his day comparable to any of the top goal-keepers today. Hope he does well.

MAURO ZARATE

Alex McLeish signed him with the hope of good performances, and boy did he deliver... with some great goals from midfield he has attracted attention from top clubs, its a pity Birmingham couldn't stay in the Premier League, would love to see more of him... well, we still might...

EMILIANO INSUA

Another of those Boca youngsters, this defender, even though small, is a mean and dogged one... signed by Liverpool, Rafa Benitez loves to play him out of his normal position, his performances however have been great... and yes, he won the U-20 WC with Argentina.

ANGEL DI MARIA

Formerly linked with Arsenal and Man United, this winger is another one of those pacy brats. "Little Angel" still packs a punch.

FERNANDO CAVENAGHI

In the Ligue 1, the title race is on and down to the wire, thanks to Cavenaghi. His match winning performances have kept Bordeaux in the race when all the others gave up. Another one to watch out for.

PABLO ZABALETA

At 5'8", this defender is the perfect replacement for the irreplaceable Roberto Ayala, according to many. At Espanyol he has been consistent and already won the Copa Del Rey once, looks like he will be picked up by a big club some time soon.

EZEQUIEL GARAY

This Mallorca central defender was one short of Marco Materazzi as last season's best goal scoring defender. With great heading ability and a vicious free kick, he is often linked to Barcelona. No matter where he plays, he is sure to shine.

With such players I don't think Argentina will fare badly in international competitions in the next decade.

What do you think???

Please reply if you think there is anyone I have missed out on.