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Cesar Montes is forcing his way into Juan Carlos Osorio's Mexico plans

Little by little, the window to impress Mexico manager Juan Carlos Osorio is narrowing. With the season beginning to wind down, many of the country's best players now have limited time to make a case for a spot in the squads that will travel to the Confederations Cup or Gold Cup.

Here, we take a look at some of the best and worst performances in the past week from those chasing a place in Osorio's teams this summer.

Warming Up

Cesar Montes, DF, Monterrey (Mexico)

Why he's here: After scoring the game-winner in the Clasico Regio, Montes was Los Rayados' man of the match in the 1-0 victory against Tigres. Even without a goal, the 20-year-old's defensive interventions were enough to earn him praise.

What this means: A call-up to the national team needs to happen soon. Although it might be too early for a place at the Confederations Cup, Montes is worthy of defending the Gold Cup title.

Marco Fabian, MF, Eintracht Frankfurt (Germany)

Why he's here: In Saturday's 3-1 win against Augsburg, Fabian produced one of the best performances of his career with two goals for Frankfurt. After returning from a back injury, the midfielder has rounded into form, scoring four goals in his past three games.

What this means: Is a starting spot in the Confederations Cup in the 27-year-old's future? If Hector Herrera continues to underwhelm with Porto, a place might be open for Fabian in June's World Cup rehearsal.

Jorge Sanchez, DF, Santos Laguna (Mexico)

Why he's here: After earning a starting role as Santos' right-back all season, the 19-year-old was rewarded with an assist in Sunday's 2-1 victory over America. Sanchez has become a key figure in the defense that has allowed just one loss for Los Guerreros in the 2017 Clausura.

What this means: Before taking a spot with the senior national team, an opportunity in next month's U20 World Cup appears more ideal. With regular playing time for Santos in the first division, Sanchez should be a strong candidate for the roster.

Rafael Baca, MF, Cruz Azul (Mexico)

Why he's here: Despite Cruz Azul's problems, Baca has quietly been building a good season for the Mexico City club. Last weekend, the 27-year-old provided an assist in the 2-1 win against Chivas.

What this means: Like Montes, Baca should be able to make it onto Osorio's shortlist for the Gold Cup. Whether he secures a place or not might depend on his form at the end of the tournament, and the form of others such as Jose Juan Vazquez and Jesus Molina.

Cooling Down

Carlos Pena, MF, Leon (Mexico)

Why he's here: Another game without much to say for Pena. On Saturday, the central midfielder was far too quiet in the 1-0 win over Puebla. Pena has yet to collect a goal or assist for Leon in a Clausura match since mid-February.

What this means: Is it time to give up on a possible return for "El Gullit" to the national team? The 27-year-old has once again failed to rediscover the confidence seen in 2014 with Leon and El Tri.

Miguel Layun, DF, Porto (Portugal)

Why he's here: On Sunday, Layun watched from the bench as Porto collected a 0-0 draw with Feirense. The high-pressing defender has yet to see the field for the Portuguese giants this month.

What this means: Regardless of his playing time for his squad, the 28-year-old is far too talented of an option to miss out on the Confederations Cup. As for his role with Porto, Layun might want to look for a move away from the club this summer.

Henry Martin, FW, Tijuana (Mexico)

Why he's here: After an exciting preseason for Xolos, Martin has struggled to make much of an impact in the Clausura. In Saturday's 2-0 victory against Toluca, the striker failed to play a minute for the fifth league match in a row.

What this means: The once-intriguing fringe national team player is unlikely to be featured by Osorio this summer. Barring some injuries to other backup strikers, it's difficult to imagine Martin returning to El Tri any time soon.

Santiago Palacios, MF, Pumas (Mexico)

Why he's here: Since arriving at Pumas last summer, the attacking midfielder has yet to collect a single start for the club. On Sunday, the 26-year-old was left on the bench in the 2-0 loss to Veracruz.

What this means: Interest in the former Eredivisie player has plummeted for Mexico fans. Palacios is going to need a decent season or two with plenty of playing time before receiving the slightest hints of consideration for El Tri.