Kenneth Vargas has vowed to return to Heart of Midlothian ready to continue his work to become a key player for the Costa Rica national team after he admitted being "mentally down" following his experience at the Copa America.

The 22-year-old was an unused substitute in all three of his country's games at the tournament. Despite a win over Paraguay in the early hours of this morning and a draw with Brazil in their opener, Costa Rica finished third in their group. Their middle game was a 3-0 loss to group winners Colombia.

Vargas posted a message on social media where he explained his feelings, reiterating his desire to play for the Costa Rica national team.

"How difficult to express myself in these complicated moments but I feel it's necessary to vent...," he wrote.

"First of all I want to thank for all the support I've received these days, it makes me proud of the work I'm doing and to know that people recognise it.

"I've cried like never before, I've suffered like never before and mentally I'm down, but above all I'm a peace because I remember that as a child this was always my dream and I won't stop until I get it.

"I will not let anything or anyone stop me from smiling, my happiness and most of all my dream of being a national team player.

"I will never doubt myself for coming to the national team, for me it is an honour and privilege to be here even if I don't get the chance I deserve, I will work double and even triple if necessary so no one will ever have to gift me anything.

READ MORE

"I will return to my club with the same hope to go do things right to be back in the selection and put the name of Costa Rica on top.

"Lastly I want to thank all my teammates, family and friends because they were always supporting me, to the captains who always talked to me and kept me calm, really this is a family and it's what makes me triple the desire to always be here.

"Again a thousand thanks for all the support and really nothing and no one will stop me from smiling and my happiness to know that whatever it takes I am pursuing my childhood dream."

Despite not featuring in the Copa America, Vargas earned his sixth cap in a World Cup qualifier before the tournament.

Vargas became a fan favourite in his first season at Hearts, scoring nine goals. His initial loan from Herediano was made permanent after impressing Steven Naismith. He is to return to pre-season after being given time off following his time with the national team.