Position: Forward
Date of Birth: August 18, 1985
Club: Fulham
International Debut: v Canada (July 6, 2005)
World Cup Appearances: 0
World Cup Goals: 0
Costa Rica may not hold much hope of making a big impact at the FIFA World Cup, but Bryan Ruiz could just hold the mercurial talent to help them spring a surprise.
Ruiz may have never played at a World Cup before, he was overlooked in 2006, but his performances both internationally and at club level make him a vital part of Jorge Luis Pinto's plans for this year's tournament.
In the lengthy qualifying campaign for the 2014 finals, the forward scored three goals in 11 appearances, including the opener against Mexico in their final game in October.
England, Italy and Uruguay now await Costa Rica in Group D and Pinto will be expecting captain Ruiz to lead by example.
Ruiz's movement and ability will pose a real threat to that trio of teams, while no-one should ignore his ability in the air.
However, England's defenders will be confident of keeping the 28-year-old quiet after his disappointing spell in the Premier League with Fulham.
After starring as a youngster in his homeland with Alajuelense, Ruiz made the move to Europe to join Belgian side Gent before making his name with Twente in the Eredivisie. A transfer to Craven Cottage followed in 2011.
Ruiz has spent three years in England, but has struggled as flashes of brilliance have been overshadowed by underwhelming displays.
A move back to the Eredivisie on loan in January after falling out of favour with then Fulham head coach Rene Meulensteen offered Ruiz the chance to revive his fortunes at PSV.
And it was an opportunity that he grabbed to produce a timely return to form ahead of Costa Rica's fourth appearance at a World Cup.
Five goals from 14 appearances helped Phillip Cocu's men finish fourth and clinch UEFA Europa League qualification.
The fact that Ruiz's club future is unclear heading into the World Cup adds intrigue to how he will fare.
By his own admission, Ruiz wants to stay at PSV, but he could be inundated with rival offers if he delivers for his country in Brazil.
Despite believing that Pinto's men have been pitted in the toughest group, Ruiz thinks Costa Rica are capable of springing an upset.
"We are in the group of death, the hardest of all. That is simply a reality we have to face," he said.
"Compared to England, Italy and Uruguay, we are the ugly ducklings of the group, the weakest team. But we know we can surprise all of them."