'No big names' in Brazil

Monday 15th February 2010

If most football fans were asked to name three Brazilian players, Ronaldinho would be a likely candidate to make the shortlist. However, Agence France-Presse (AFP) reports that Brazilian coach Dunga does not necessarily agree when it comes to shortlisting his own candidates for the 2010 Brazilian World Cup squad. "You always want big-name players," he told the press agency. "But, for us, there is no such thing as a big name or a small name - we can't create problems for ourselves." Dunga's words turned into action recently when selecting his squad for the upcoming friendly against the Republic of Ireland. Ronaldinho was left out of the final list for Brazil's last international meeting before the South Africa World Cup tournament begins - despite AFP noting that he has recently found new form with AC Milan. Brazil remain second-favourites to win the tournament at around 5/1, but whether Ronaldinho will be given the chance to lift the infamous FIFA World Cup Trophy - the modern-day replacement for the original Jules Rimet Trophy - remains to be seen.