Brazil’s Neymar says injury not serious
MILTON KEYNES ( England): Brazil striker Neymar limped out of their 1-0 friendly win over Cameroon but later calmed fears his injury might be serious with a message confirming the problem was not something he was unduly concerned about.
The Paris St Germain player was substituted after tweaking his groin as he shot at goal with seven minutes gone in the international match at Milton Keynes in England.
Team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar told reporters that while a scan was needed to confirm the exact diagnosis, he did not think the injury to Neymar’s adductor muscle would keep him out long and Neymar confirmed that early diagnosis.
“Thanks to everyone who sent me messages wishing me a quick recovery, I don’t think it’s anything serious,” Neymar wrote on Instagram.
Brazil went on to win the match with Neymar’s replacement Richarlison scoring the only goal of the game a minute before halftime.
It took Brazil’s record since the World Cup to six wins in six games with six clean sheets.
“We ended the year happy with the work we’ve done up until now, these last games were important to help us recover after the setback that was the World Cup,” Neymar added.
“We remain strong, focused and looking to always get better.” Neymar’s injury was not the only concern for PSG on Tuesday with his club strike partner Kylian Mbappe also withdrawn before halftime in France’s 1-0 friendly win against Uruguay.
The forward fell awkwardly on his right shoulder after a challenge from Uruguay goalkeeper Marin Campana. — Reuters