BRAZIL are set to name Fred as the replacement for superstar Neymar in their starting XI.
Neymar, 30, went off injured during Brazil’s 2-0 win over Serbia in their opening game at the Qatar World Cup.
This has cleared the way for divisive Manchester United star Fred to come into the starting XI.
Brazil boss Tite has more natural attacking replacements such as Antony and Rodrygo available for selection.
But instead he is set to opt for Fred, 29, in order to help free up defensive responsibility for Lucas Paqueta when they face Switzerland later today.
Tite hinted at the switch, saying: “Sometimes we see it in the movies where someone who isn’t the star steals the scene.”
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Newcastle star Bruno Guimaraes is also being considered for a promotion off the bench, but Fred’s partnership with Casemiro at club level and for Brazil for the last few years could sway the decision.
There were fears Neymar’s tournament was over after suffering ligament damage in his ankle, with the attacker sharing a post of his swollen foot and a compression boot he is using to Instagram.
However, the recovery of Neymar – along with crocked full back Danilo – is going well according to Tite, though the Paris Saint-Germain ace may not feature again until the knockout rounds.
Tite added: “I believe both Neymar and Danilo will play again in the World Cup. I have medical reports that are on my side.
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“Both situations have improved and we believe both will be available to play. We have to live day by day.
“I blame myself with Neymar because I didn’t see that he was injured and he played on for 10 or 11 minutes.”
Despite the positive progress on Neymar’s recovery, Tite has called for more protection for his players in Qatar.
He said: “The foul that hurt Neymar was not malicious. It was an accident. But if you want to celebrate football you have got to punish the rotation of fouls.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
