Muricy Ramalho frustrated with Neymar absences

Santos coach Muricy Ramalho has once again expressed his frustration at Neymar’s numerous absences from his side.

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The 20-year-old has missed several Santos games this season due to Brazil call-ups and the Olympic Games in London.

 Neymar made his 11th league appearance of the season last night during his side’s 2-2 draw with Atlético Mineiro.

The Seleção star scored a stunning goal during the match, despite having only arrived in Brazil on the morning of the game following a 20-hour trip from Poland where he faced Japan in a friendly on Tuesday.

Muricy Ramalho said: "Unfortunately, Neymar has not played much for us this year and has been greatly missed.

"When people know he plays, the stadium is full. It's a shame that he is absent so often because football is different with him."

Neymar, who wore a special shirt to celebrate his 200th appearance for the Piexe last night, has scored nine goals in the Brasileirão so far.

However, he has also received four yellows and one red card this season, with the latter earning him a two-match ban.

The Barcelona and Chelsea target, who saw red during Santos’ 1-1 draw with Grêmio three weeks ago, will miss his side’s visit to Ponte Preta on Sunday, having already sat out of Santos’ 1-1 draw with Internacional.

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