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Mexico Hot List: Hirving Lozano puts on show for PSV, 'Cubo' Torres slumps

Believe it or not, we are only a little over two weeks away from Mexico's next official matches.

After a busy summer that featured the Gold Cup and the Confederations Cup, El Tri will once again take the field in early September for World Cup qualifiers against Panama and Costa Rica.

Keeping in mind that those two games are just around the corner, here are the latest best and worst performances from those vying for a spot in Mexico's roster.

Warming Up

Oribe Peralta, FW, Club America (Mexico)

Why he's here: Despite the fact that he is now 33 years old, Peralta is still one of Liga MX's most impressive Mexican strikers. One week after scoring in the 2-1 win over Pumas, Peralta found the back of the net again during last Friday's 1-0 victory against Atlas.

What this means: The veteran will likely not steal minutes from Javier Hernandez or Raul Jimenez for El Tri, but at the very least, fans should expect him in the next call-up. Looking ahead, can Peralta potentially sneak onto the World Cup roster next summer?

Hirving Lozano, MF, PSV Eindhoven (Netherlands)

Why he's here: Lozano put on a show for PSV Eindhoven in his Eredivisie debut. During Saturday's 3-2 win over AZ Alkmaar, the 22-year-old winger scored and hit the woodwork for PSV. Although he also missed a few clear opportunities, the home crowd gave him a standing ovation after he was substituted out in the 85th minute.

What this means: Lozano is already making an impact in Europe, which could mean big things for the national team. In the face of plenty of competition within El Tri's roster, the winger should be able to solidify a more significant role.

Luis Fuentes, DF, Monterrey (Mexico)

Why he's here: Fuentes has become a part of a back line that currently looks like one of the best in Liga MX. As Monterrey's starting left-back, the 30-year-old has taken charge with crucial defensive interceptions and runs down the flanks. On Saturday, Fuentes also provided an assist in the 4-1 victory against Chivas.

What this means: Is Osorio paying attention to the Monterrey starter? Fuentes isn't the most exciting option to call up in the near future, but if he is looking for an in-form substitute for Miguel Layun, the defender should be given a try.

Cooling Down

Erick Torres, FW, Houston Dynamo (United States)

Why he's here: Following a brilliant start to his MLS season, "Cubo" Torres has quickly quieted down during the past two months. The striker failed to have much of an influence for El Tri at the Gold Cup and has yet to rekindle his form for the Dynamo. Torres hasn't collected a goal or assist for club or country since July 1st.

What this means: After a disappointing run in the Gold Cup, it's doubtful that Osorio will give the 24-year-old a call-up for the September matches. Also, as long as Torres struggles in MLS, an aging veteran such as Peralta will continue to remain above him on Mexico's depth chart.

Hector Herrera, MF, Porto (Portugal)

Why he's here: It's not good news that the former Porto captain is now a bench player at the beginning of the season. In Sunday's 1-0 win over Tondela, Herrera was brought on as a late substitute for the second match in a row.

What this means: Similar to his situation at Porto, there is no guaranteed spot in the starting XI for Mexico either. Although it would be a shock to see Herrera left out of the next call-up, it wouldn't be too strange to see Osorio give another player minutes in his starting midfield position.

Carlos Guzman, DF, Morelia (Mexico)

Why he's here: It's odd to see Guzman not earn a single minute of playing time for Morelia. After four matches in the regular season, the energetic and quick full-back has yet to step onto the field for the Liga MX squad. While other young Mexicans face difficult competition in their respective clubs, the 23-year-old should at least be able to fight for one appearance in Morelia's average roster.

What this means: Six years after winning the 2011 Under-17 World Cup with El Tri, Guzman remains highly irrelevant to the senior national team. The promising player will need much more consistency and regular playing time in Liga MX before returning to his heights from 2011.