Chile star could miss Socceroo WC clash

Arturo Vidal could be in danger of missing the World Cup – and a date with the Socceroos – with the Chilean star to undergo knee surgery.

Arturo Vidal could be in danger of missing the World Cup - and a date with the Socceroos - with the Chilean star to undergo knee surgery.

The Juventus midfielder has battled a long-standing knee issue and will go under the knife on Wednesday in a bid to be right for Brazil.

With Juve wrapping up the Serie A title over the weekend, the decision was made by club and Chile national team doctors to have surgery immediately to boost his chances for the World Cup.

One of Chile's best players, Vidal's absence would be a huge boost to the Socceroos' hopes of springing an upset, with the two nations to play their group opener on June 13.

While the surgery is not expected to keep the 26-year-old out of the whole tournament, with just five weeks until the start of the World Cup he may not be fully fit for the opening match.

Vidal has scored eight goals in 46 appearances for his country and has a formidable partnership with Barcelona star Alexis Sanchez.