Jardim turns to Flamengo under-20s, plans academy chances in World Cup pause | OneFootball

With nine players called up for the World Cup, Leonardo Jardim will turn to Flamengo’s under-20s to bolster his squad for Saturday’s Brasileirão match with Coritiba at 16:00. According to Globo.com, academy players will also be involved in first-team sessions during the competition pause.

Speaking after the Cusco game, Jardim said Coritiba have started well and that Flamengo must be superior at home regardless of who plays. He said availability would be judged on physical condition as well as on paper, start with the best side and keep three bench options, and that the academy would be used. He added that six under-20s would begin training with the group to offer solutions.

After their Libertadores win, the squad were given Wednesday off and returned to Ninho do Urubu on Thursday. Those who trained with the seniors included right-back Daniel Sales, centre-backs João Victor and Daniel Carvalho, left-back Johnny, and midfielders Kaio Nobrega and Sayago, plus forward Joshua.

The cohort of youngsters will not be fixed, with names rotated so Jardim can observe more players. Since his arrival a packed schedule has limited attention on the academy, and he intends to watch them closely and expand opportunities in the second half of the year.

Beyond the call-ups, Flamengo will also be without Jorginho against Coritiba after the midfielder sustained a fracture to a toe on his right foot in the Palmeiras match.

Source: Globo.com