Japan forward Atsushi Yanagisawa was released from hospital Wednesday and says he hopes to fit in time to play in June's World Cup finals.

Yanagisawa broke a bone in his right foot last month and underwent surgery on March 26.

"It doesn't hurt as much as I thought," Yanagisawa told reporters. "I feel pretty good. With a big goal of playing in the World Cup I hope to recover as soon as possible."

Yanagisawa returned to J-League side Kashima Antlers on loan from Italian team Messina in order to boost his World Cup hopes.

Japan coach Zico often speaks highly of the veteran , who played for Japan in the 2002 World Cup. Zico will announce his World Cup squad on May 15 after Japan plays Bulgaria and Scotland in the Kirin Cup.

Japan is in Group F in the World Cup along with defending champion Brazil, Croatia and Australia.