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Dunga announces new roster, Ronaldinho still not included
4/11/2008 9:39

Brazil head coach Dunga announced yesterday his new lineup for a friendly match against Portugal on November 19.

Ronaldinho remains off the roster along with Juan. The latest additions to the team are the fullbacks Marcelo and Miranda.

"Ronaldinho has made progress, but he still needs to practice," said the head coach. "I spoke with him before the last game and told him that we only plan to use him next year. We hope that he will be in much better shape by then."

Juan, Jo, Alex Silva, Luca were also left off the list. Due to the team's recent performances at home, Dunga is hoping to switch things up and create a positive result.

Adriano, despite being temporarily suspended from Internazionale of Milan, was invited to play for Dunga once again.

Marcelo, who was a starter during the Olympic Games, earned a spot on the team.

With five alterations, Dunga will hope to repeat his performance against Portugal in 2007 when Dunga made his appearance as head coach.

In February of 2007, Brazil defeated Portugal 2-0 in a friendly match in London.

"I made the changes I thought were necessary. My interest is in the tea," said Dunga. "I am brining in some athletes to see how they react to the game. In our next game, we need to play much more as a team."



Xinhua