Santos playmaker Ganso to return for Libertadores semis
June 12th, 2012 - 5:09 pm ICT by IANSRio de Janeiro, June 12 (IANS) Santos playmaker Paulo Henrique Ganso looks set to play in Wednesday’s Copa Libertadores semifinal against Corinthians, just 19 days after receiving a surgery on his right knee.
The 22-year-old, originally expected to be sidelined for at least a month, surprised teammates and coach Muricy Ramalho by training freely with the team Monday, reports Xinhua.
Ramalho admitted he was ready to pick Ganso but said he would seek final confirmation from the Brazil midfielder before the match.
“Wednesday’s game is important but the footballer’s career is fundamental,” Ramalho said. “For that reason I am leaving it up to him without putting him under any pressure. He is only going to play if he is feeling really good and confident.”
Ganso had arthroscopic knee surgery May 25 to remove scar tissue from two previous operations on the joint.
Santos could also regain holding midfielder Arouca for Wednesday’s clash against their Brazilian rivals. The 25-year-old has recovered from a thigh injury and completed training on Monday without discomfort.
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- Santos slam Ponte Preta 6-1 in Sao Paulo state championship - Feb 26, 2012
- Brazil releases Neymar, Ganso for Libertadores quarter-final - May 15, 2012
- Neymar vows to avenge Santos' shock defeat - Apr 27, 2012
- Santos rejects Sao Paulo bid for Ganso - Aug 22, 2012
- Inter Milan in talks with Brazil duo - Jul 07, 2012
- Tottenham eyes bid for Brazil midfielder Ganso - Sep 09, 2012
- Fluminense playmaker Neves out for two months - May 31, 2012
- Ronaldinho out of Brazil squad - May 12, 2012
- Santos equal record to cruise into Copa Libertadores quarter-finals - May 11, 2012
- Santos take lead in Group A of Libertadores Cup - Mar 23, 2012
- Boca beat Universidad in Copa Libertadores semis - Jun 15, 2012
Tags: arouca, brazil, clash, coach, confirmation, copa libertadores, corinthians, footballer, game, knee surgery, match, midfielder, paulo henrique, rio de janeiro, rivals, scar tissue, semis, teammates, thigh injury, xinhua