Perhaps his country's most influential player four years ago, Hernandez almost missed the flight to the Far East altogether.
He scored four goals at France 98 including the one which put his country ahead in the second round against Germany.
However, he was furious at being left out of friendlies against Albania and the USA earlier this year.
Riled by the selection of Gabriel Caballero who was born in Argentina, Hernandez claimed a 'true' Mexican was being denied a spot in the team.
Despite the comments he was called back into the squad for the friendly with Bulgaria on 17 April.
At 33 years of age there are fears that his best days are behind him and a return of no goals from eight appearances during qualifying has forced him down the pecking order.