Edmilson will miss the World Cup

The 29-year-old suffered a knee injury in training on Monday and, after a scan on Wednesday, the defending world champions withdrew him from the squad.

Edmilson, who can also play in defence, will be replaced in the squad by Mineiro of Sao Paulo.

The World Cup holders kick-off their 2006 campaign against Croatia, before playing Australia and Japan.

A statement on the website of the Brazilian Football Federation (CBF) said: "After a meeting between the coaching staff, the team captain Cafu and Edmilson at the Thermoplan Stadium, Edmilson was told he has been removed from the Brazilian squad that will play in the World Cup on Germany."

The utility player was instrumental in helping Barcelona to Champions League success this season.

In a twist of fate, his fellow Brazilian, Gilberto Silva, who played for Arsenal against the Catalans in the Paris final, may take his place, sitting in front of the defence.

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