Juve give Arturo Vidal all-clear ahead of World Cup

Sport360 staff 13:46 18/05/2014
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  • Rapid recovery: Vidal should be fit to represent Chili at the World Cup.

    Serie A champions Juventus have given midfielder Arturo Vidal the green light for the World Cup as the Chilean international continues his recovery from knee surgery.

    Vidal underwent keyhole surgery on a meniscus problem in his right knee two weeks ago, prompting fears he could miss Chile's trip to Brazil.

    But in a statement on Saturday the Serie A giants said Vidal "will be fit for the World Cup. He has left Turin in an excellent condition and is now in the care of our Chilean colleagues."

    Juventus had come in for some criticism after using Vidal in the second leg of their Europa League semi-final against Benfica while knowing of a potential problem.

    But they claimed he had asked to keep himself available for selection for as long as possible in the season.

    "We've been in constant contact with our Chilean colleagues about Vidal's injury. It would have been an error to operate initially given that the lateral meniscus of his right knee wasn't damaged," added the statement.

    "Vidal made himself available until the very final game and the player's wishes always need to be respected.

    "As soon as the complaint became constrictive, it was decided to operate, as was previously planned."

    At the World Cup, Chile will play in Group B with the Netherlands, Spain and Australia.

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