LAS VEGAS, July 4 (Xinhua) -- Luis Suarez said Thursday he is relishing his role as an elder statesman in Uruguay's squad as the Celeste seek to lift the Copa America title for a 15th time in the United States.
Suarez, Uruguay's all-time top scorer with 68 goals in 140 international appearances, has played just eight minutes in this tournament to date and knows his time at the elite level is coming to an end.
"I am enjoying every moment a lot. As you get older you enjoy it more and more because you know that the flame of football is going out," the 37-year-old told reporters ahead of the Celeste's Copa America quarterfinal against Brazil at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas on Saturday.
"I'm just another member of the squad. Whether I play or not I'm happy with the role I have and will keep trying to help in whatever way I can," the Inter Miami striker said.
Suarez said he was enjoying his role as a mentor for younger players such as Liverpool forward Darwin Nunez and Manchester United's Facundo Pellistri.
He recalled his early days in the national team when Diego Forlan and Sebastian "El Loco" Abreu helped him feel at ease on the international stage.
"I try to help in any way I can. El Loco was the first to support me and today being in that position you have to be a motivation too," Suarez added.
The winner of Saturday's clash will meet either Colombia or Panama in the semifinals of the continental tournament. ■
