Porto's Fernando hopes for Brazil call-up

Porto’s Fernando (left) seen here battling with Manchester City’s Yaya Toure.

Rio de Janeiro, Feb 22 (IANS) Porto midfielder Fernando says he hopes to attract the attention of new Brazil coach Luiz Felipe Scolari ahead of next year’s FIFA World Cup.

The 25-year-old has been one of Porto’s most consistent players this season, and believes he can offer Scolari a reliable option in front of the team’s defence.

“I always check when the team is announced and I’m still hopeful,” Fernando was quoted as saying by Xinhua Thursday. “I get emails from fans and they ask me about the national team, and all I can say is that I’m going to keep on working. I get a lot of exposure here in Europe but not in Brazil because I left home early.”

While Brazil has traditionally boasted a production line of attacking playmakers, the South American country is less known for its holding midfielders.

Chelsea‘s Ramires and Corinthians star Paulinho are currently Scolari’s preferred options, having started in the Selecao’s 1-2 defeat to England at Wembley Stadium earlier this month.

“I play like a European now and not at all like a Brazilian holding midfielder. There aren’t any defensive midfielders in Brazil, which could work in my favour and that is why I’ m still hopeful of getting my chance.

“I think defensive midfielders bring balance to any team, like Gilberto Silva and Dunga did before.”