Pato, Ganso make Brazil cut

Alexandre Pato and Ganso have been included in Brazil’s squad for July’s Copa America, despite both men struggling for fitness.

AC Milan striker Pato has been troubled by a shoulder complaint and Santos midfielder Ganso has a thigh strain, but that did not stop coach Mano Menezes selecting them both in his 22-man squad for the tournament, which runs from July 1-24 in Argentina.

“I’m taking into consideration the potential of these players,” Menezes said.

“I’ve said before that Ganso is the more complete player for the position to organise the team the way I want, and there will be a lot of time for him to get ready and play well.”

The squad was announced on Tuesday after Brazil’s 1-0 friendly win over Romania in Sao Paulo, a match that marked the farewell international appearance of legendary striker Ronaldo.

Some of the surprise omissions from Menezes’ squad were Manchester United midfielder Anderson and Villarreal striker Nilmar.

Full Brazilian squad: Goalkeepers: Julio Cesar (Inter Milan), Victor (Gremio). Defenders: Dani Alves (Barcelona), Maicon (Inter Milan), Andre Santos (Fenerbahce), Adriano (Barcelona), Lucio (Inter Milan), David Luiz (Chelsea), Thiago Silva (Milan), Luisao (Benfica). Midfielders: Lucas (Liverpool), Ramires (Chelsea), Sandro (Tottenham), Elias (Atletico Madrid), Lucas (Sao Paulo), Jadson (Shakhtar), Elano (Santos), Paulo Henrique Ganso (Santos). Forwards: Alexandre Pato (Milan), Neymar (Santos), Fred (Fluminense), Robinho (Milan).