Newcastle United cult hero has picked up three player of the match awards in as many games at Copa America

While Newcastle United fans' primary interest in the Copa America is Bruno Guimaraes with a little bit of a sideways glanced spared for Miguel Almiron who has now been knocked out, it's actually a former Newcastle man who is scooping up the plaudits.

The USA is hosting this year's competition and Bruno Guimaraes' Brazil booked their place in the knockout places after their second group game, but a draw against Colombia last night means they qualified in second spot and now face a tricky tie against Uruguay.

Miggy Almiron's Paraguay were dumped out of the competition with the Newcastle winger coming in for a lot of stick from Paraguay fans online.

However, it's Venezuela who have the player of the tournament so far, even rivalling Lionel Messi when it comes to praise.

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Rondon left Newcastle but stuck with Rafa Benitez

Salomon Rondon has bagged two goals for his country in their group games while picking up the player of the match in all three games.

Now 34, it looks like Rondon hasn't lost the touch that endeared him to so many Newcastle fans during his brief spell on Tyneside under Rafa Benitez.

The former West Brom striker had one season on loan at Newcastle where he played 32 games and bagged 11 goals before following Rafa Benitez to Dalian Professional in the Chinese Super League.

Rondon's last stint in the Premier League wasn't so great

Venezuela now face Canada on Friday for a spot in the semi-finals.

The last time Rondon was spotted in the Premier League was during a poor spell at Everton where he managed just one goal in 27 appearances.

He has since hit double digits in his last two seasons at River Plate and most recently at Mexican club CF Pachuca.