Leonardo Jardim vows to do everything to get Gonzalo Plata back to his best after Flamengo’s 2-0 Cusco win | OneFootball

Leonardo Jardim said he will do everything to get Gonzalo Plata back to his best after the Ecuadorian started in Flamengo’s 2-0 Libertadores victory over Cusco.

According to Coluna Do Fla, it was Plata’s first start in four matches. The No 19 featured in the opening Group A fixture, played a key part in a high press that won the ball in attack, and avoided a first-half dismissal after stepping on an opponent’s shin.

Jardim said his objective is to bring Plata up to a good level, describing him as an international with quality and strong physical attributes.

He added that, after linking up with Ecuador, Plata returned more complete and more focused, and is showing his value. In Jardim’s view, everyone wants Plata operating at a good level to help his team-mates and Flamengo.

The coach also said the winger had struggled to settle at the club, with off-field controversies emerging. Flamengo even considered negotiating the forward, but his return from national-team duty improved the picture.

Back in Brazil, Flamengo face Fluminense in the Fla-Flu on Saturday 11 at 18:30 Brasília time at the Maracanã, in round 11 of the Brasileirão, with Fluminense the home side.

Source: Coluna Do Fla