Santos endured a gruelling 2011 season, stretching over the course of twelve months, meaning many of their star names player 60+ games over the period.
With tiredness catching up with many of the stars late in the season, the first-team squad were given permission to take extended holidays following the Club World Cup in Japan, thus missing the start of the State Championship season.
However, the squad are unlikely to feature much in the competition, with the Copa Libertadores their priority, once it all kicks-off in a couple of weeks time.
Oeste will be cursing their luck, as Santos’ struggling reserves are rested, only for the likes of Neymar, Ganso and Borges to be given a crack at the minnows.
Coach Muricy Ramalho has spoken of Neymar’s desperation to return to the pitch after a six-week absence. Will the starlet make Oeste pay for his frustration?
