Costa Rica calls Carlos for qualifiers

Melbourne Victory ace Carlos Hernandez has been selected to represent Costa Rica in two 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifiers next month, as the Ticos edge closer towards a berth in next year’s tournament.

Melbourne Victory ace Carlos Hernandez has been selected to represent Costa Rica in two 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifiers next month, as the Ticos edge closer towards a berth in next year-s tournament.

Hernandez, who recently signed a three-year contract extension with Melbourne Victory, will miss the club-s upcoming tour of China to play for Costa Rica against USA in San Jose on Wednesday, June 3 and Trinidad and Tobago in Bacolet three days later.

Costa Rica currently sits second in the final stage of CONCACAF qualifying, with the top three teams from the group of six to progress directly to the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

“Carlos performed well in Costa Rica-s last World Cup qualifier against El Salvador and has been rewarded with selection for their upcoming matches against USA and Trinidad and Tobago,” Melbourne Victory Football Operations Manager Gary Cole said.

“Carlos will depart Melbourne this Friday and is expected to return on June 9, during which time Melbourne Victory will play against Guangzhou Pharmaceutical and Tianjin Teda in China.”

Melbourne Victory will face Chinese Super League sides Guangzhou and Tianjin on June 5 and 7 respectively.