The curly-haired defensive midfielder was one of the breakout stars of Costa Rica's surprising World Cup run to the quarterfinals in Brazil. The 22-year-old started all five matches, and held in check top players like Italy's Andrea Pirlo during the tournament.
An injury to the right knee of Cristian Gamboa won't require surgery, keeping alive the hope that Costa Rica's right back will return in time for the World Cup.
At a press conference Thursday morning, Costa Rica coach Jorge Luis Pinto discussed the status of a few players who might provide a boost for his team against Group D's high-ranking rivals.
