9 players whose World Cup stock changed after Friday's friendlies

One of the final rounds of World Cup auditions commenced Friday for those hoping to catch their national team manager's eye ahead of this summer's competition in Russia.

Although the majority of countries competing this summer will rely on a handful of star players to lead the charge, there's an elite group of nations comprised of the world's best players vying for a chance to be included in the final 23-man rosters.

Friday's sleight of matches featured several World Cup favourites, who could realistically field multiple teams that could put up a fight in Russia. However, with spots limited, Friday's matches either hurt or improved the chances for several players.

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Marcus Rashford - England

With the threat that Harry Kane might be unable to recover from a nasty ankle injury by the time the World Cup rolls around, Marcus Rashford could prove to be vital to England's chances of ending its 52-year drought. The Manchester United forward wreaked havoc on the Netherlands' back line during England's narrow 1-0 win with his combination of pace and moving into open spaces. Alongside the equally speedy Raheem Sterling, Rashford will be difficult for even the world's best defences to contain if he's given a shot in Russia.

Olivier Giroud - France

Olivier Giroud's move to Chelsea may very well pay off, as the French striker didn't disappoint after being named to Didier Deschamps' starting team against Colombia. Despite losing, Giroud made a claim for a spot in France's final roster by scoring his 30th goal to move into a tie for fifth on the country's all-time scoring list. A combination of increased playing time and positive form at Chelsea will only improve his chances.

Paulinho - Brazil

Tottenham bust Paulinho is certainly making it difficult for Brazil manager Tite to look elsewhere for midfield help this summer. The Barcelona midfielder scored Brazil's final goal in a 3-0 win over World Cup host Russia to maintain his ridiculous form with the national team

Marc-Andre ter Stegen - Germany

It's still Manuel Neuer's job to lose, but don't tell that to Marc-Andre ter Stegen, who, along with his counterpart David De Gea, put on a show for Germany during Friday's draw with Spain. The Barcelona goalkeeper thwarted a number of chances against Spain's sublime attack, and could very well get a shot between the sticks if Neuer fails to return to fitness.

Manuel Lanzini - Argentina

The bizarre decision against deploying Paulo Dybala and Mauro icardi could pave the way for Manuel Lanzini to see an increased role with Argentina. With his side leading Italy with under five minutes to play, Lanzini secured the win with a stellar strike to mark his first start with La Albiceleste.

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Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain - England

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain still has some convincing to do if he plans on booking a ticket to Russia in June. Although his work rate has never been an issue, the Liverpool midfielder must get himself more involved in matches in order to not give Gareth Southgate a reason to look elsewhere.

Mesut Ozil - Germany

Mesut Ozil's place in Germany's starting squad might not be guaranteed after another poor night at the office. Compared to his counterpart Isco, Ozil produced an uninspired performance against Spain that could potentially force Joachim Low to consider one of the many midfield options at his disposal.

Mats Hummels - Germany

There was some cause for concern for Germany's reliable back line in the opening minutes when the defending World Cup champion conceded early. Although Spain's opener was born out of an incredible pass from Andres Iniesta, questions will be asked of Mats Hummels and his inability to stay with Rodrigo before the Valencia forward scored within the first 10 minutes of Friday's 1-1 draw.

Gerard Pique - Spain

It may have been because of an injury, but Gerard Pique's night ended early when the Barcelona defender was removed in the second half in the wake of an unconvincing performance against Germany. However, his place in the national team likely isn't in danger given that Pique is by far Julen Lopetegui's best option to partner with Sergio Ramos in the heart of Spain's back line.

(Photos courtesy: Getty Images)