One of 62 players used in qualifying by coach Luiz Felipe Scolari but only got a look in for two of Brazil's 18 matches.

Strong and resilient, he is regularly played at centre-back but is happiest pushing forward from left-back.

He has a battle on his hands to oust Roberto Carlos from the team but has shown with Parma that he has the ability to do so.

He is yet to match such displays at international level.