Rafael replaces Daniel Alves in Brazil team

SAO PAULO: Brazil have called up Manchester United rightback Rafael da Silva (pic) to replace the injured Daniel Alves in the squad for upcoming friendlies.

Rafael was called up on Friday because Alves broke his collarbone while practising with Barcelona earlier this week.

Brazil will play Denmark on May 26, the United States on May 30, Mexico on June 3 and Argentina on June 9.

The matches are part of Brazil’s preparations for the Olympics, the only significant competition the five-time world champions are yet to win.

By picking the 21-year-old Rafael, coach Mano Menezes leaves only five players older than 23 in the squad for the upcoming friendlies: David Luiz, Thiago Silva, Marcelo, Hulk and Jefferson.

The Olympic tournament is played with Under-23 teams but each nation can use three over-age players. — AP