New York Red Bulls midfielder Juninho says he wants to prove he can still play at a high level despite his age.
The 38-year-old moved to the MLS side in December, following a second stint with Vasco da Gama, where he made 50 appearances and scored 14 goals.
Juninho has insisted he is fit and ready for his new side’s first game of the season against the Portland Timbers on March 3.
He said: “This is a challenge for me. I want to show that I can still change at a high level despite my age.
“I do what I love, football is my passion, it is my life and I feel privileged to play at the age of 38.
“Hopefully I’ll start in good conditions, represent Brazil here, and become an idol of the Red Bulls.”
Juninho played under Gerard Houllier, who is now Head of Global Soccer for Red Bull, at Ligue 1 outfit Lyon, where he spent eight years and made around 250 appearances.
The free-kick specialist then moved to Qatari club Al-Gharafa in 2009 before rejoining Vasco, having previously spent six years at the Brasileirão side.
