Corinthians Copa Libertadores final hero Emerson Sheik is free to return to action against Flamengo tonight after seeing his ban for absuing a referee reduced from 6 games to 5.
Sheikh, 33, was originally banned for 6 games for using abusive language towards referee Péricles Bassols after getting sent-off in Corinthians 1-0 victory over Atlético Mineiro on 2nd September.
But after an appeal, the STJD has reduced the ban to 5 games, all of which have now been served, but the striker will have to pay R$10,000 to charity.
The return of the former Flamengo star helps Timão coach Tite, who will be without Jorge Henrique and Danilo through injury and Paulo Guerrero and Juan Manuel Martínez who are away with Peru and Argentina respectively.
With Emerson back available, the chances of on-loan striker Zizao making his debut have decreased and the Chinese player may find himself cut from the squad altogether.
The clash at Estádio do Pacaembu see’s 2 of the biggest teams in South America come face-to-face and Flamengo are desperate for a victory to ease any fears of relegation.
