Ronaldinho to start for Brazil against England

Feb 5, 2013 7:00:00 PM

The former Barcelona No.10 returns from his year-long international exile to face the Three Lions at Wembley, and he admits he was surprised to be recalled by Luiz Felipe Scolari

Ronaldinho is set to start for Brazil against England on Wednesday after being named in coach Luiz Felipe Scolari's preliminary XI for the match.

The 32-year-old's most recent Selecao appearance came in the 2-1 friendly defeat by Bosnia-Herzegovina last February, but he has been named in the veteran trainer's first squad since returning to the hot-seat.

The ex-Barcelona and AC Milan forward, who now plys his trade with Atletico Mineiro, had struggled to convince former coaches Dunga and Mano Menezes that he could form part of the national team's future.

However, he has been given a new lease of life on the international scene by his former mentor, and speaking at Wembley prior to the clash with the Three Lions, Ronaldinho spoke of his delight at being able to return.

"It had not been in my plans," he told the Daily Mail.

"I had a very good season last year so I was hoping it would happen to a certain extent. I am very glad it has come true now.

"My style remains the same. I play the same way I played before.

"It gives me great pleasure to return to Europe, having played here for such a long time. It is a great pleasure to be back."

Meanwhile, during Tuesday's training session, Scolari partnered Brazil new boy Dante at centre-back with David Luiz - despite initial fears that the Chelsea man could miss the midweek friendly in north-west London.

Probable Brazil team to face England: Julio Cesar; Dani Alves, David Luiz, Dante, Adriano; Ramires, Paulinho, Oscar; Ronaldinho, Neymar, Luis Fabiano.

Sign up with William Hill for a free bet up to £25
Sign up with bet365 for a free bet up to £200
Sign up to Paddy Power for £250 in free bets
Sign up today with Coral and get a £50 FREE bet - no strings attached!
Sign up today with BetVictor and get a £25 FREE BET!