Branco pulled on the famous yellow jersey seventy two times, scoring nine goals in his ten year international career. The ex-left-back also became a world champion in the 1994 U.S.A World Cup, alongside, Aldair, Taffarel, Zagallo and Pareira, who have also casted their votes for the 2011 Samba Gold trophy.
First Pick – Thiago Silva
”My vote goes to the best defender in the world, Thiago Silva of AC Milan. He’s a great defender, who now has no equivalent in his position. He will certainly be present in 2014 World Cup,” declared Branco, who was Fluminense’s director in 2007 when Thiago Silva was captain and defender of the Tricolor Carioca.
Second Pick – Hernanes
Branco went for Lazio’s midfielder, Hernanes. The former São Paulo player has impressed since his move to the Roman club in 2010 and has carried his rich vein of form throughout 2011.
Third Pick – Marcelo
Finally, Branco’s third choice was a player that also played in the same position as himself as well as playing at the same club (Fluminense).
Now of Real Madrid, Marcelo has become an important player for José Mourinho’s side, becoming one of the Los Blancos vice captains and winning the Copa del Ray in 10/11 season.
Click here to vote for your choice for the Samba Gold Trophy 2011
