Grêmio’s defensive midfielder Fernando is targeting a place in Brazil’s first team as the Seleção face Chile on Wednesday.
Fernando shone in the friendlies against Italy and Russia, he has previously played for Brazil’s youth national teams as well.
He told reporters when he arrived in Belo Horizonte to join the squad: “It’s a good path, I have been called up many times and that helps. I had my first chance under Luiz Felipe Scolari and had a good performance. I have to do a good job on Wednesday to remain in the squad.”
The midfielder added: “Wednesday’s game will help a lot. We have many quality players that play in my position, and a good performance on Wednesday will certainly help.”
He did not agree with Scolari that more attacking-minded defensive midfielders are not necessary, he said: “There is no doubt that nowadays defensive midfielders have to know how to play and how to mark. But Felipão surely prefers defensive midfielders that are better markers.”
“We have to adapt to his style so that we can be back as soon as possible.”
Source: Globo Esporte
