COMMERCE CITY, Colo. – Costa Rica captain and Real Salt Lake star Álvaro Saborío said on Thursday that he will play in Friday’s crucial World Cup qualifier against the United States (10 pm ET, ESPN/UniMas, live chat on MLSsoccer.com) despite earlier fears that he might miss the game with a bruised knee.



“I feel good. I’m fine,” the striker told a throng of reporter after Costa Rica’s practice Thursday morning. “I’m looking forward to a good game tomorrow.”



The prolific striker picked up a bruise in his left knee earlier this week, but he practiced on Thursday and is expected to feature for La Sele.

READ: Saborío confident of win in Denver vs. USMNT



A Wednesday report from Deportes Repretel indicated that Costa Rica manager Jorge Luis Pinto had said that Saborío was doubtful to play for the Ticos due to the knee bruise. But Saborio quickly dispelled the reports, saying he’s 100 percent and ready to feature Friday.



Saborío has 30 goals in 72 appearances for Costa Rica, including a goal and an assist in four games against the United States.



Chris Bianchi covers the Colorado Rapids for MLSsoccer.com.