Adriano anxious ahead of Corinthians debut
Former Brazil striker Adriano is hoping to make his long-awaited debut for Corinthians following an eight-month injury lay-off, but admitted to being nowhere near full match fitness.
- Agence France-Presse
- Updated: October 08, 2011 05:42 PM IST
Former Brazil striker Adriano is hoping to make his long-awaited debut for Corinthians following an eight-month injury lay-off, but admitted to being nowhere near full match fitness.
"If I can play for 10-15 minutes, it will be like playing 90," Adriano told media a day ahead of Sunday's match against Atletico GO at the Pacaembu.
"I would love to play a full game but I don't have the fitness yet. I'm only at 20 percent of my capacities."
Adriano, 29, has been plagued by a right shoulder problem since his time at Italian Serie A club Roma, whom he quit six months ago to start a one-year deal with Brazilian top flight side Corinthians.
Shortly after signing his new contract Adriano's injury woes deepened when he ruptured the Achilles tendon in his left ankle.
Now recovered but lacking sharpness, Adriano admitted to feeling anxious ahead of his possible debut.
"I'm quite anxious, I hope on Sunday I will finally get to pull on the jersey and feel the warmth of the fans," added the Brazilian, who won four league titles with Inter Milan.
Adriano, who made the first of his 52 appearances for Brazil as an 18-year-old, was previously considered a long-time successor to Ronaldo but fell out of favour with the national team prior to the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.