Brazil coach puts faith in Lucas
September 5th, 2012 - 1:57 pm ICT by IANSRio de Janeiro, Sep 5 (IANS) Brazil coach Mano Menezes is set to include new Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) signing Lucas Moura in his starting line-up for Friday’s international friendly against South Africa in Sao Paulo.
The 20-year-old was the major talking point Tuesday after relegating Chelsea recruit Oscar to the sidelines during simulated match practice, reports Xinhua.
It appears to mark a change of tactics for Menezes, who used Lucas sparingly during Brazil’s London Olympic campaign, which culminated in a silver medal following a 1-2 defeat to Mexico in the final at the Wembley Stadium.
Lucas, who will join PSG next January in a 43-million-euro deal struck with his Brazilian club Sao Paulo last month, was guarded when asked about his chances of starting against South Africa.
“It was a productive training session with a focus on moving the ball quickly,” said Lucas.
“I’m hoping to find my place in the team with hard work and patience.”
Barcelona left-back Daniel Alves missed Tuesday’s session with a left thigh strain while Tottenham midfielder Sandro also watched from the sidelines due to a left calf injury.
Both players have not been ruled out of Friday’s match at the Morumbi Stadium which will be followed by Brazil’s friendly against China in Recife Sep 10.
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- Menezes to keep same squad for China friendly - Sep 09, 2012
- Ronaldinho dropped from Brazil Olympic probables - Jun 08, 2012
- Ronaldinho dropped from Brazil Olympic probables - Jun 08, 2012
- Brazil winger Lucas joins PSG for 43 million euros - Aug 09, 2012
- Ronaldinho out of Brazil squad - May 12, 2012
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- Menezes to blame for Brazil's Olympic agony, says Romario - Aug 12, 2012
- Striker Fabiano recalled to Brazil squad - Sep 12, 2012
- Hulk in Brazil's starting line-up against China - Sep 10, 2012
- Brazil select 22 players for Olympic football squad - Jul 06, 2012
- Olympic football: Brazil's coach may bring changes to team - Jul 31, 2012
Tags: calf injury, club sao, daniel alves, euro deal, menezes, midfielder, morumbi stadium, moura, new paris, olympic campaign, paris saint germain, psg, recife, rio de janeiro, sidelines, silver medal, starting line, thigh strain, wembley stadium, xinhua