Former Colchester United star Richard Garcia is facing a race against time to be fit for the World Cup.

Garcia — who made nearly 100 appearances over a three-year stint with the U’s — has been named in Australia’s provisional 31-man squad for next month’s tournament in South Africa.

However, the skilful 28-year-old is currently nursing a knee injury suffered during a training session with his current club, Hull City.

Garcia has returned to Australia in order to undergo treatment for the ailment.

And the Tigers midfielder is confident he will be fit for next Monday’s Socceroos’ international friendly against New Zealand.

“The injury is coming along well,” Garcia said.

For the full story see today's Gazette.