Brazil coach Luiz Felipe Scolari has stated that Ronaldinho must justify his inclusion in tonight’s side to face England at Wembley.
The 32-year-old, who is set to make his 100th international appearance, has not represented the Seleção since a friendly win over Bosinia last year.
Felipão, or ‘Big Phil’, has named Ronaldinho in his first squad since re-taking over the national team hotseat from Mano Menezes, but insists the former Barcelona star must prove his worth.
He said: “Ronaldinho may be 32 but last year, he had a spectacular championship with Atlético Mineiro, where he was the leader of team.
“He has leadership qualities and he is good enough to play for several years.
“He will show me whether I am right or wrong to cap him once again and he will have to show how quickly he can integrate into the team.”
This evening’s match will be Scolari’s first since he returned for a second stint with Brazil, who he led to their fifth and last World Cup title in 2002 with a team which included Ronaldinho.
In between, the former Chelsea and Palmeiras boss led Portugal to the Euro 2004 final and World Cup quarter-finals in 2006.
