Derby County winger Nathaniel Mendez-Laing has rejoined his teammates for pre-season training just days after returning from CONCACAF Gold Cup action with Guatemala.
The 31-year-old was called up to the Guatemala national team for the first time this summer and started every game as Luis Fernando Tena’s side progressed to the knockout stage before Jamaica sent them home.
Mendez-Laing provided two assists for his nation in the tournament as Los Chapines surprised everyone by making it out of the group stage.
Their first fixture was a 1-0 victory over Cuba, for which the Derby man delivered the assist.
Canada formed the Guatemalans’ second opponent. Impressively, Mendez-Laing and his teammates held the Canucks to a 0-0 draw.
Guatemala then defeated Guadeloupe 3-2 to secure their place in the knockout rounds, the Derby winger again claiming an assist.
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It was not to be for Los Chapines in the quarter-final, however, as Jamaica marched to victory despite a spirited performance from the Guatemalans.
In a video posted to the Rams’ social media channels, Mendez-Laing is seen reuniting with the Derby squad during their warm weather training camp in Spain.
He will have seven new faces to meet after Paul Warne’s busy start to the transfer window, and he could potentially be involved in the Rams’ friendly versus Salford City at the Pinatar Arena in Murcia on Saturday.
How will Mendez-Laing get on this season?
The international featured 51 times for Derby last season, firmly establishing himself as a fan favourite and goal threat.
With eight goals and 11 assists to his name in his debut season with the Rams, supporters will be looking forward to seeing him back in action after a full pre-season with Warne in charge.
Questions may be asked of where Mendez-Laing will fit into the team this campaign if the Derby boss opts for his preferred 3-5-2 formation, but with the talent he possesses he is bound to make his mark again in one way or another.