Wanchope - keen to get back in the goals. (Allsport)

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Costa Rica striker Paulo Wanchope is desperate to recover his goalscoring touch ahead of their World Cup opener on June 4.

The Manchester City star returned to the international scene with an unconvincing display in the recent 1-0 defeat to Belgium after a knee injury kept him out for five months.

He admits he is a still a little rusty but vowed to do better when the real action starts.

"I missed three clear chances against Belgium, but for all these months I had very little contact with the ball.

"That was evident. But the most important thing here is the mind. I know I failed, and I will do my best to improve."

Alexander Guimaraes's troops are aiming to at least match the achievements of the last Costa Rica side to play at the World Cup.

The 1990 side reached the second round following wins over Sweden and Scotland and Wanchope has targeted three points from the China game as vital to their progress.

Wanchope said: "We have to start with a victory, because we're in a group where any team can qualify.

"We know we can do it, and that's why we're ambitious."

However, Costa Rica have been unconvincing in the run up to the finals.

Two poor displays against Japanese club sides, including a 2-0 defeat to Grampus Eight, were followed by the defeat to Belgium.

In all their matches they struggled in front of goal, something Wanchope admits they must change if they are to qualify from Group C.

He added: "We have to take advantage of our goal chances, and we've worked hard to improve our effectiveness close to goal."