Samú Costa #24

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He may have been part of Roberto Martínez’s squad for the spring friendlies but the 25-year-old was still the main surprise when the World Cup squad was announced. "He showed his energy, grit and tactical awareness in March," the coach explained. Samú was selected ahead of players with real international pedigree such as João Palhinha and Mateus Fernandes, and reached the national team without playing for one of the “big three” in Portugal. He came through the youth ranks at Braga but only played one game for the first team before moving to Spain. In February, he told A Bola that: "it would be easier to reach the national team" if he were at a bigger club, adding: "the manager himself told me that” – but he managed it anyway. When the squad was announced he told Canal 11: "Perhaps no one expected me to be called up, and that was extra motivation for me. Being able to go against all odds and surprise people.”

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