Colombia coach Jose Nestor Pekerman has praised the "sacrifice" made by James Rodriguez after he travelled to South America during the international break but was unable to play in any games.
Real Madrid attacker Rodriguez will miss Tuesday's World Cup qualifier against Uruguay due to a calf injury, the Colombian Football Federation announced on Monday.
The 25-year-old also missed the 1-0 win over Paraguay on Thursday.
He suffered a calf strain in the warmup before Real's home draw with Eibar last weekend and has now returned to Spain to continue his rehabilitation.
Speaking at his news conference ahead of Tuesday's game, Pekerman said: "All players are committed to the national team and to the country and assume the responsibility.
"I emphasise the sacrifice and love that James feels for the national team. Real Madrid authorised his trip, and he has continued his recovery here, but finally he chose to travel back and continue his recovery at his club."
James posted a photo on his personal Twitter account, saying he was "working to return even better."
Trabajando para volver mejor ? pic.twitter.com/BNGKQwflLA
- James Rodríguez (@jamesdrodriguez) October 10, 2016
But it remains to be seen whether James will recover in time to face Real Betis in La Liga on Saturday after a club statement said he was "continuing his recovery."