Having heard his performance against Cruzeiro described as “perfect” by manager Vanderlei Luxemburgo, Grêmio midfielder Marco Antônio has looked to downplay those comments.
Marco Antonio, 27, was handed a chance to start due to the absence of young prospect Fernando and helped his side to a 2-1 victory to keep themselves firmly in third position.
The versatile midfielder, playing in a deeper defensive midfield role, believes that he still has much to learn in the position.
“I need to improve my marking, that is fundamental. The position requires that much,” he told reporters post-match.
“When I don’t have the ball, I need to mark strongly. I hope I can always help when Vanderlei feels it necessary.”
Although Fernando was available for the tie with Cruzeiro, the youngster was omitted after travelling to Argentina with the national side.
He will now miss the next three games due to his inclusion in the squad to play Japan and Iraq, meaning Marco Antonio’s first-team opportunities should continue for the time being.
