Botafogo coach Oswaldo de Oliveira has admitted that he was ‘stunned’ at the performances and influence of former AC Milan star Clarence Seedorf since arriving at the club earlier this year.
Seedorf, 36, was signed originally as a marketing ploy by the club but has proved to be an inspired signing.
“It was a marketing idea and his numbers were not encouraging for Milan,” Oliveira told SporTV.
“He did not play many matches and, while playing, missed passes and was not as effective. His arrival was a concern, but what did we get….A rejuvenated Seedorf, he is motivated.
“Off the field, Seedorf is impressive. He talks to everybody, with the coaching staff, players, management. He promotes dinners with players, encourages the young ones. What Seedorf does is very important.”
The coach also explained his decision to play the Dutch international higher up the field that he has normally played throughout his career.
“In the first game, I put Elkeson closer, closer to the attack. I was criticised because he has played a lifetime in midfield. But should I put it where he will run more, for 90 minutes? He is 36 years old. Why he did so many goals? Because he is closer to the area.”
Despite his outstanding performances this season, Oliveira does have concerns over the player’s fitness and will need to manage the star over the course of the season.
“I’ll wait a little longer to decide with the coaching staff. Let’s see the evolution of it. Seedorf did a pre-season in 2012.
“Seedorf has wear but is adapted to Brazil. He is very strong, but he is a player much closer to the end of his career than the beginning.”
