The Telegraph is among the outlets reporting that Colombia’s fears are true: the doubtful status of Radamel Falcao for the 2014 World Cup has been downgraded. He’s out for the tournament in Brazil.
Falcao injured his knee in a Cup match against a fourth-tier side and his absence from the tournament will be not just a major blow for Colombia, but a disappointment for soccer lovers in general.
The 27-year-old striker has starred across several countries and continents -- Monaco, Atletico Madrid, Porto, River Plate -- also notching 20 goals in 51 caps for Colombia. He was particularly dangerous for the Mattress Makers, where he scored 70 times in 91 appearances. Falcao has scored 10 times through 16 matches during his first season in France.
The injury also casts a pall on Everton’s hopes of securing Lacina Traore now that Monaco’s forward depth is in question. Once assumed to be headed on loan to West Ham, the 6-foot-8 Traore has been reported as close to a loan with the Toffees instead.
As for Colombia, could this open a spot for Fredy Montero? River Plate’s Teofilo Gutierrez and Porto’s Jackson Martinez will likely feature in their strike force, but could Montero nose his way alongside Carlos Bacca and Luis Muriel.