Position: Defender
Born: 17.12.1968
Club: CD Chivas

Despite being an international world record holder, it was a shock to everyone when Claudio Suarez was included in Mexico's World Cup squad.

Suarez did not appear in any of the Tricolor's qualifying games but manager Ricardo Lavolpe recalled the veteran defender for the 2-0 friendly victory over Hungary at the end of 2005.

That match was the 37-year-old's 173rd international appearance, equalling Mohamed Al-Deayea's world record for Saudi Arabia, but the Mexican went on to break this milestone by staring in his country's 2-1 triumph against Paraguay at the end of March.

Currently playing in the USA's Major League, Suarez had spent his entire career in his homeland playing for the likes of Pumas, Chivas de Guadalajara and Tigres before his 2006 move to CD Chivas in California.

Nicknamed 'El Emperodor', Suarez is an excellent reader of the game and often commands the defence as a sweeper. Strong in the tackle and an an efficient marker, he also has the skills and coolness to distribute well.

He may well be no spring chicken but he has a wealth of experience behind him which will be a valuable asset for Mexico this summer.

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