Top scorer at the World Cup. Football's darling. Real Madrid's newest superstar.
James Rodriguez has enjoyed quite the year, and last week it got just a little bit sweeter.
The 23-year-old was named captain of his national team, wearing the armband for the first time during Colombia's 2-1 friendly win over the United States. In the process, he became the youngest player in team history ever granted the distinction.
It's a decision that manager Jose Pekerman has full confidence in, despite the attacking midfielder's relative inexperience.
"James has grown up and matured very quickly for his 23 years," the Argentine bench boss told AS. "Each new step that he makes surprises me, and he has great potential.
"He is a winner. That is why he was captain, and we believe fully in him - the coaching staff and the players. He took on the captaincy with responsibility."
Colombia will meet Slovenia in a friendly match on Tuesday, where James will lead his side onto the pitch for the second time in his burgeoning career.
