Santos gained an important boost in preparation for the duel against Remo. This Saturday (28), Neymar performed well in a training game held at CT Rei Pelé and left positive signals for the coaching staff.
The activity was played against the under-20 team, in two halves of 45 minutes. The main team won 4-1, with the direct participation of number 10, who contributed an assist.
In addition to the numbers, Neymar showed ease on the field, a factor that was closely monitored by the medical department and the commission led by Cuca. The tendency is for the striker to start as a starter in Thursday’s match, at 7pm (Brasília time), in Vila Belmiro, for the ninth round of the Brazilian Championship.
Spared in the goalless draw with Cruzeiro, the number 10 underwent load control after a sequence of games and with the ball throughout the week. This Saturday’s training game was the second work on the field since then.
The main formation used by Cuca included Gabriel Brazão; Igor Vinícius, Lucas Veríssimo, Luan Peres and Barreal; Gustavo Henrique, Christian Oliva and Neymar; Rony, Moisés and Thaciano. Without full-back Escobar, preserved, the coach improvised Barreal on the left.
Santos still has confirmed casualties. Vinícius Lira, who underwent surgery on his left knee, and Gabigol, with edema in his right leg, remain out. Other players remain recovering in the medical department.
After the activity, Neymar valued the work against the base and highlighted the importance of game rhythm.
“It’s important, both to train our team and to give the boys opportunities. I was on the other side and I know how important it was at the base to face the professional. After so many days without games, it’s good to get into rhythm. It was nice, I’m happy to participate. I scored a goal, I assisted, so everything is fine”, he told Santos TV.
