David Luiz to miss Brazil friendlies

May 25, 2012 6:13:00 PM

The former Benfica centre-back is nursing a minor thigh problem, but would be able to play at the Olympic Games if chosen by Mano Menezes

Chelsea defender David Luiz has been ruled out of Brazil's upcoming friendly matches with an injury.

The 25-year-old stopper, who returned to action in the Champions League final against Bayern Munich, is complaining of pain in his right thigh and he will not take part in any of their four friendlies.

"He needs some more time to regain full fitness," Brazil doctor Jose Luis Runco said. "He will not play in those matches, but he will continue training with us.

"My intention is that he returns to Chelsea in perfect physical condition. Our idea is to prepare him for the next season, but if coach Mano Menezes decides to call him up for the Olympic Games, that will not be a problem."

Meanwhile, Santos playmaker Ganso and AC Milan striker Alexandre Pato have been ruled out of Saturday's match against Denmark because of injuries, while Neymar will rest after Peixe's penalty shoot-out victory over Velez Sarsfield in the Copa Libertadores on Thursday.

After the match against the Euro 1992 champions, the Selecao will take on the United States (May 30), Mexico (June 3) and Argentina (June 9) as they prepare for the Olympic Games in London.

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