Russia World Cup: Fagner Could Replace Alves

Rio de Janeiro: Brazil right-back Fagner Conserva Lemos could be a replacement for veteran Dani Alves for the upcoming World Cup in Russia, the Brazilian football confederation CBF said on Sunday.

Brazil said that their doctor Rodrigo Lasmar believes Fagner will be fit for the tournament which kicks off on June 14, reports Xinhua news agency.

Fagner, who plays for Corinthians, has been ruled out since April 29 when he picked up a thigh injury. Brazil head coach Tite will announce his 23-man squad on Monday in Rio de Janeiro.

Brazil is in Group E with Switzerland, Costa Rica, and Serbia and they will take on Switzerland in their opening game on June 17.

IANS