Ronaldinho backed for Olympic role
BFC president Ricardo Teixeira believes Ronaldinho can play an important role for Brazil at the Olympics.
Ronaldinho was in the stands for Wednesday's goalless World Cup qualifier between Brazil and Argentina, fuelling speculation that he is set for a return to the international fold for the first time since November.
The Barcelona playmaker, who is currently in Brazil as he recovers from a muscle injury which kept him out of most of the end of last season, is still looking for a club after being told by the Catalan outfit that he was not in their plans.
Despite the uncertainty over Ronaldinho's future, Teixeira is adamant the 28-year-old can light up the tournament in Beijing.
"He is a player with the qualities to make a great Olympic tournament," Teixeira told www.jornalnacional.globo.com.
"I think the fans have to support Ronaldinho as he is very important to the squad."
Teixeira's comments came just a day after Ronaldinho claimed he will feature in Beijing as one of Brazil's over-23 players.
"I'm sure I'll be in Beijing," he told Brazilian TV station SporTV.
"If God wills it then I will be back in the national team.
"I'm recovering from my injury and I want to be back as soon as possible. It's very difficult being out (of the team)."
Playing in the Olympics would rule Ronaldinho out of the start of the season for any new club.
AC Milan star Kaka would also like to see Ronaldinho at the Olympics, though he admits he has little chance of playing in Beijing himself because of Milan's refusal to release him.He said: "I am very happy because Ronaldinho wants to play at the Olympic Games.
"But there isn't any point in comparing us. He is going through a delicate time in his career - he's coming back from an injury and he doesn't know if he's going to stay at Barcelona.
"I asked to go to Beijing, but Milan said that they are going to release only Alex Pato, who is of the Olympic age. I am a senior player.
"They are within their rights and now it's the CBF's turn to try and get my release."
Kaka, who is recovering from surgery on his left knee, said he will be ready to return in 15 days, adding: "I love being in the national squad. I always want to be on the pitch, but the operation wasn't optional - it was obligatory.
"I can't play in this shape."
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