Then, it transpired that Mano wanted to play Hulk for this game with Mexico, with the FC Porto man coming in for Fred, in a move applauded by many supporters.
However, Mano then himself admitted in a press conference that although Hulk is a more than capable as a central figure, he is at his best when coming in from the right-side on his powerful left foot.
In the final hours before the game, this has left Mano Menezes torn between a crucial selection issue, Lucas Moura or Fred?
Option 1 – Lucas start and Hulk plays central
This is the team Brazil have used in the last few training sessions, however the role of Hulk is problematic as he has not regularly played as a central striker in recent times for Porto. If as Mano says, he is best from the right hand side and will be allowed to drift, this would mean Ronaldinho or Lucas would need to fill the central void.
Option 2 – Fred starts, with Hulk from right-wing
However, if Mano Menezes decides that Hulk should start from the right side, this would mean a re-call for Fred, despite a poor performance against Costa Rica. It would give Mano a chance to witness Hulk in his most effective position, but would deprive Lucas Moura of an opportunity ahead of next year’s Olympics.
