RIO DE JANEIRO, March 21 (Xinhua) — Everton forward Richarlison said Monday he is ready to reclaim a starting berth in Brazil’s national team for World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Bolivia.
The 24-year-old has not represented his country since the Copa America final last July, when Brazil lost 1-0 to Argentina at Rio de Janeiro’s Maracana stadium.
The iconic venue is set to be the stage for his return against Chile on Thursday.
“I was left with a feeling of sadness [at not being a part of the squad],” Richarlison, who has suffered knee and calf problems in the past six months, told a virtual news conference.
“My [injuries] were serious and there were people saying that I wasn’t going to go to the World Cup. But I’m at ease. The players that came in did well but I know my potential and my talent. I already have a history here with the national team that I think deserves respect.”
Brazil’s clash with Chile will be followed by a duel with Bolivia in La Paz on March 29.
The five-time world champions lead the South American zone standings and have already qualified for football’s showpiece tournament, to be played in Qatar from November 21 to December 18.
