Wanchope (right) - race to be fit (Allsport)
WANCHOPE RETURN BOOSTS COSTA RICA
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Paulo Wanchope's return to training today was
the good news for Costa Rica coach Alexandre Guimaraes ahead of their Group C
game against Turkey on Sunday.
The Manchester City forward, who missed the bulk of the English season through
injury, played in the 2-0 win over China but had not trained with the squad on
Wednesday.
However, midfielder Harold Wallace remains a major doubt after his early exit
from action in Gwangju.
"During that match he asked me to replace him and he hasn't trained since
then," said coach Alexandre Guimaraes.
"We're waiting for the doctors' decision, but meanwhile we will test other
options."
It is likely that Steven Bryce, who impressed in last year's Copa America but
has since been used sparingly by the national team, could play. He came on
during the win.
However, Wallace's absence has not dented the Brazilian-born coach's
optimism.
Despite the tough test the Turks set his native country, Guimaraes maintained
his faith in his side to qualify for the second round.
"Costa Rica are ready to face any team in this World Cup," he said. "We
have a great chance of winning the group.
"But we'll more pressure against Turkey than we did against China.
"Their style made things difficult for Brazil. But we are different and with
it we've won a lot of things."
The Central Americans currently top their pool, ahead of Brazil on goal
difference, after the opening round of matches.
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