Soccer-Uruguay midfielder Bentancur ready to give his best at Copa America

FILE PHOTO: Soccer Football - Premier League - Tottenham Hotspur v Manchester City - Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London, Britain - May 14, 2024 Tottenham Hotspur's Rodrigo Bentancur reacts Action Images via Reuters/Peter Cziborra/File Photo

(Reuters) - Midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur said he was happy to play whatever role Uruguay coach Marcelo Bielsa asked of him, either in the starting line-up or as a substitute, in Thursday's Copa America match against Bolivia.

The Tottenham Hotspur player, who turned 27 on Tuesday, came on as a substitute in the 3-1 win against Panama on Sunday.

"I feel spectacular. To be part of the national team again, to experience another Copa America, it's a privilege. We have an incredible team, there is a very good and healthy competition between us," he told a press conference on Wednesday.

"I've said it before and I'll say it again, you come to the national team to give your best, no matter where you're playing. The other day I came off the bench in the last few minutes and I really enjoyed it. And now I carry on with the same mentality of doing my bit wherever I can and giving my best."

Bielsa told reporters he had not yet decided on his starting line-up, saying there was no fatigue in the squad.

"I haven't noticed any particular situation that would determine the line-up. I want the qualities of the players to be the ones that determine who plays the leading role or who gives up the leading role," he said.

He also commented on why Uruguay's all-time leading goalscorer Luis Suarez had been left out of the match against Panama, saying: "The fact that he did not play is not a cause for controversy, discussion or complaint.

"The argument for a player's inclusion is not the result, but the performance of the player he could replace and the need for the player to respond to the characteristics that the game demands."

Bentancur also spoke of the importance of veteran Suarez to the team, whether he was on the pitch or not.

"He always transmits (his wisdom). Not just to me but to the whole team. With the history he has and the reference point he is, it is a privilege to have him as a team mate. He has helped us a lot and is fundamental."

(Reporting by Angelica Medina in Mexico City; editing by Clare Fallon)