© Reuters

Colombia come into Monday's Copa America opener against Ecuador without talisman James Rodriguez due to fitness concerns.

After an injury-stricken first season in the Premier League with Everton, the midfielder was deemed unfit to feature in the Copa America, being left at home as a result.

Even in Rodriguez's absence, La Tricolor are not short of quality in midfield with Luis Diaz and Juventus' Juan Cuadrado operating on the wings while Diaz's Porto teammate Mateus Uribe will feature in the middle, supporting the two attackers.

He will be joined by tenacious Al-Hilal midfielder Gustavo Cuellar, who is known for his combative style and impressive tackling ability.

Meanwhile, the line should be led by Atalanta duo Luis Muriel and Duvan Zapata, with the pair having registered a combined 37 goals and 19 assists in Serie A this season, firing their side to an impressive third-placed finish.

At the other end of the pitch, Tottenham Hotspur centre-back Davinson Sanchez and Everton defender Yerry Mina will continue their established pairing at the heart of the back four.

They will shield experienced Napoli goalkeeper David Ospina, who has made 107 appearances for his nation.

Colombia possible starting XI: Ospina; Medina, Mina, Sanchez, Tesillo; Cuadrado, Cuellar, Uribe, Diaz; Zapata, Muriel

> Click here to see how Ecuador could line up for this clash

Written by
Sam Varley