Scolari defends Neymar

Brazil Coach Felipe Scolari has insisted Neymar is not a diver, claiming he has a thigh injury and will miss a few days’ training.

AS reports Scolari as hitting back at allegations Neymar went down easily in the penalty shootout win over Chile, pointing the finger instead at Neymar’s Barcelona teammate Alexis Sanchez.

Scolari compared the experience of Neymar to that of Cristiano Ronaldo at World Cup 2006, when he was in charge of the Portugal national team.

“He was hit hard in the first play,” Scolari began.

“I remember when I coached Ronaldo in 2006, he dribbles past a player from the Netherlands and 15 minutes later he had to leave the pitch.

“Neymar’s thigh is swollen. I don’t understand why people say he dives.

“Today about 15 fouls were whistled on Alexis and he dived 15 times.

“Neymar’s efforts have to be valued and he deserves some positive words. We have three, four or five days to get him back on the field.

“He’s 22-years-old but plays like he’s 35. He’s mature and has been ready since he was 18. He’s been fighting despite his injury problems.”

Tags Brazil Neymar Scolari World Cup 2014
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