Corinthians quintet return to starting XI after long gaps in Athletico-PR stalemate | OneFootball

Corinthians were held to a 0-0 draw by Athletico-PR at Neo Química Arena in the 21st round of the Campeonato Brasileiro, with a heavily rotated team. Five players returned to the starting XI after lengthy absences.

According to Meu Timao, Fernando Diniz named an alternative side featuring several squad players who had not begun a match for weeks.

André Carrillo made his first start since 17 May, when Corinthians lost 3-1 at Botafogo in the league. Fellow defender André Ramalho also started that May fixture, then later began the friendly against Cascavel on 12 July.

Right-back Pedro Milans had not started since 21 May, the 1-1 draw with Peñarol in the Copa Libertadores. Jesse Lingard’s previous start came on 24 May, a 1-0 league win over Atlético-MG.

Dieguinho had endured the longest wait, last starting on 21 April in a 1-0 victory against Barra in the Copa do Brasil.

After resting regulars on Thursday, Diniz is expected to restore his strongest line-up on Sunday, when Corinthians visit Internacional at Beira Rio at 19:30. It is the first leg of the Copa do Brasil last 16.

Source: Meu Timao