GUADALAJARA, Mexico – FC Dallas loanee Moises Hernandez is only 20 years old, but already has featured for two of Central America’s biggest clubs.
Normally a left back, Hernandez (above) debuted in Saprissa’s 2-1 comeback victory against Uruguay on Sunday in the unfamiliar position of center back.
“I was happy with my debut,” Hernandez told MLSsoccer.com by phone from Costa Rica on Tuesday. “I was going to start at left back, but the coach asked me on Saturday if I could play center back. I’d never played center back in a real game.”
After a season with Comunicaciones in Guatemala, Hernandez is now looking to establish himself as a regular starter in Costa Rica, admitting that he isn’t bothered whether it is on the flank or in the middle of the defense. He just wants the minutes and experience.
The pressure is on, however, with Saprissa fans demanding results and the club’s first title since the Verano 2010 tournament.
“There are big expectations for each player,” Hernandez said. “The team hasn’t been champions in like four seasons, so people are expecting great things from us this year.”
There were press reports that Guatemala were interested in calling up the Dallas native to the recent Copa Centroamericana, but Hernandez says it was an impossibility due to the fact he doesn't have a Guatemalan passport. He’s also keen to point out that any international decision is on the back-burner, whilst he establishes himself at club level.
“Right now I’m more focused on Saprissa,” he said. “I’m still young, 20 years old, so I don’t want to jump the gun with that.”
Tom Marshall covers Americans playing in Latin America for MLSsoccer.com. Contact him at tom.marshall.mex@gmail.com.
