Brazil striker Gabriel Jesus says he does not fear competition from Liverpool’s Roberto Firmino for a starting berth in the Brazil side.
Both players are embroiled in a close contest for the number 9 spot in the Brazil team. Jesus says he sees this as a good thing for the Seleção.
The City striker scored twice in Brazil’s 7-0 rout of Honduras. Firmino came off the bench in the second half and scored a goal too.
“Firmino had a beautiful season, finished as a Champions League winner, which is very difficult. I give it to him and accept that he has been gaining space.
“With him or me, we will do our best to respond to the challenge. I am happy with this and I will accept it if Firmino has won the space. This is very good for the selection.”
Jesus says he is better prepared for this year’s Copa América after a frustrating time at last summer’s World Cup.
“These are different times. Before the World Cup, I had an injury. This season, I ended up playing, but I did not play so much during the year. I'm better prepared now.
“After the World Cup, I got more prepared and today I am more mature and I understand my style of play better.”
