Brazil announce squad for Croker clash

Werder Bremen defender Naldo ended a miserable day on a high note after being called into the Brazil squad for the international friendly against Ireland on Wednesday night.

Naldo was sent off as Bremen lost 2-1 at home to Bochum earlier on Sunday but was named by Brazil coach Dunga as the replacement for Bayern Munich centre-half Lucio, who injured his back in Friday’s 2-1 win at Hansa Rostock.

Dunga might have to make another change, with AC Milan star Alexandre Pato picking up an ankle problem after scoring the winner in the Rossoneri’s 1-0 win at Fiorentina on Sunday night.

The Brazil squad is: Julio Cesar (Internazionale), Renan (Internacional); Leonardo Moura (Flamengo), Rafinha (Schalke), Marcelo (Real Madrid), Breno (Bayern Munich), Naldo (Werder Bremen), Luisao (Benfica), Alex (Chelsea); Kaka (AC Milan), Gilberto Silva (Arsenal), Hernanes (Sao Paulo), Josue (Wolfsburg), Lucas (Liverpool), Richarlyson (Sao Paulo), Anderson (Manchester United), Thiago Neves (Fluminense), Julio Baptista (Real Madrid); Robinho (Real Madrid), Luis Fabiano (Sevilla), Rafael Sobis (Real Betis), Alexandre Pato (AC Milan).