It'd be nice to think that this means that they all recognise, like Arsenal fans do, that Silvinho is simply a better player than the one-trick Real Madrid "superstar", whose career is built on a couple of famously spectacular free-kicks. However, as we reported on Silvinho's last call-up, Roberto Carlos may be being left out simply because the rest of the squad hate his guts. It's certainly not an age thing, R Carlos is only 27, and anyway the veteran Romario keeps getting picked.

Tantalisingly, there appears to be an HTML error in this report of the squad selection, from the official Brasil team website. The report carries the new coaches thoughts on many players and positions, but when it comes to the defence it says "Full Backs: is a tall and solid centre back." Something is missing. Mind you, it wouldn't be like the Brasilians to spend too much time talking about their defence!

ArseWeb reader Julio points us to the Terra website in Brasil, which carries eg this report of R Carlos's reaction to being dropped. He is diplomatic, saying that while he and Romario are not friends they can play in the same team without problems. He also says that Silvinho is an excellent player, and that the coach must have faith in the Arsenal man to pick him. He claims to be confident that he can get back in the squad if he keeps playing well for Real.

Terra also report that while Silvinho is expected to join up with the squad on Nov 13th, his recent injury means that he won't actually be playing against the Colombians.