Alex Sandro and Ayrton Lucas: Leonardo Jardim outlines Flamengo left back pecking order | OneFootball

Leonardo Jardim has said current form will decide Flamengo's left back, with Ayrton Lucas ahead of Alex Sandro for now. According to Coluna Do Fla, he stressed selections could change but performance remains decisive.

Alex Sandro returned after almost two months in the 2-1 win over Corinthians on Sunday 13, in the 27th round of the Brasileirão. The defender had been out since 29 July, when Flamengo drew 1-1 with Internacional at Beira-Rio, after reporting pain in his right calf.

Jardim emphasised he values having alternatives and that, at this moment, Ayrton is more of a starter than Alex. He underlined that could change in future, and that training performances are central to his calls.

He added that he has strong confidence in both, and that Flamengo is about those who step in and give their best. He sees daily who fights for the shirt, and said the pair deserve support even when things do not go well.

Ayrton is on a run of 10 consecutive starts, taking the spot after Alex Sandro's calf issue. The sequence has helped him consolidate his place in Jardim's starting side.

With both left backs available, Flamengo face Independiente del Valle, of Ecuador, at Maracanã on Thursday 17 at 21:30 Brasília time. It is the second leg of the Libertadores quarter-finals.

Source: Coluna Do Fla

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