Coutinho can replace Neymar against Ecuador - Tite

Tite

, the

coach, believes that

Philippe Coutinho

is able to replace the injured

Neymar

in his first game after 12 months.

The Brazilian, who made a loan move to

from

this month, is going to line up in Lucas Paqueta’s place in the game with

in the World Cup qualifying round.

The 29-year-old has not featured for Brazil since 2020 due to the knee surgery he underwent in January 2021.

His return is at the same time Neymar is out of action given his ankle injury.

"

People always want Neymar, but at times things don't happen the way you want,"

Tite told reporters.

"We feel sorry that Neymar can't be here, but we have other options. I'm talking about Coutinho. He is a player that can play in that role and I believe in his quality.

"Coutinho is an important player and he's been recovering to his best level."

He added:

"From a social and human standpoint, I know how much time he has invested and the challenges he has faced to recover from injury."

The former Liverpool forward has started his career at Villa brightly, finding the back of the net in their 2-2 draw with Manchester United on his first game.

Brazil have clinched their place at Qatar 2022; however, Tite wanted to urge his players in the qualifiers against Ecuador and Paraguay on Tuesday.

"

I thought the emotions and feelings would be lighter but no, we have the same emotions and anxieties,"

Tite said.

"I want to test players in the upcoming qualifiers. I still have the same pressure."

Tite said that he will play Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior in the encounter with Ecuador along with Raphinha and Matheus Cunha.

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