São Paulo coach Ney Franco is not worried about Lucas Moura’s fitness ahead of their game with Atlético Goianiense, despite the fact the attacker has just returned from international duty.
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The 20-year-old, who is moving to France in January, played 35 minutes in Brazil’s 4-0 win over Japan on Tuesday, after replacing goalscorer Kaká.
The future Paris Saint-Germain player has now returned from Poland and has been given a vote of confidence from his boss to play in the Brasileirão in two days’ time.
Ney Franco said: “We have not met with Lucas. He arrived and was released to go home. He will perform at the dinner and we will have a conversation with him.
“But knowing his history, I know that Lucas always returns in good condition.”
The coach referred to Lucas’ participation in Brazil’s 8-0 rout over China last month as an example of this.
Lucas played the whole 90 minutes for the Seleção and was back in action for São Paulo the same week, during their 1-0 defeat to Atletico Mineiro.
Franco added: “He played in Recife on a Monday and play for us on Wednesday. He was on the field the whole game and corresponded very well physically.
“He is an athlete who can handle the entire game and will be ready for the entire match against Atletico Goianiense.”
Lucas also shares his manager’s opinion and believes he will be fit enough for Friday’s game.
He said: “I just try to do my part on the field, helping my team and giving me the most to contribute to a win. Whenever I am on the field I will give my blood for São Paulo.”
