/ 30 June 2010

Elano ruled out of Netherlands tie

Elano Ruled Out Of Netherlands Tie

Brazil midfielder Elano will play no part in Friday’s quarterfinal clash with The Netherlands in Port Elizabeth after failing to recover from injury, team doctor Jose Luiz Runco confirmed on Wednesday.

Elano sustained a heavy knock to his shin in Brazil’s 0-0 draw with Portugal but aggravated the problem in training last Sunday.

“He has severe bruising. He trained on Sunday and after that said that he was having problems,” said Runco.

“I’m not saying that he won’t be able to play again at this World Cup but he won’t be ready by Friday.”

Elano revealed that he had underestimated the problem and had probably returned to training too early.

“I began feeling better shortly after the injury happened and began training again. When that didn’t work they carried out a scan.”

Runco said a subsequent X-ray revealed the extent of the problem.

“We have to release the pressure on the bone and that will take a couple of days. He will do nothing strenuous for the rest of the week.” — Sapa-AFP