Leonardo Jardim defends Flamengo talent Carrascal, says he is not at his best | OneFootball

Leonardo Jardim defended Jorge Carrascal after Flamengo’s thumping win over Independiente Medellín, while accepting the Colombian is not at his best. According to Coluna Do Fla, the coach said recent setbacks have not diminished the player’s talent.

In the second round of Libertadores Group A at the Maracanã, Carrascal was sent clear by a Samuel Lino pass with the match at 0-0 but failed to connect.

With Flamengo 1-0 up, he then lost possession in midfield, triggering the counter that ended with Yony Gonzalez equalising. The hosts recovered and struck three more to put the game out of reach.

Jardim described Carrascal as young and highly gifted, and said expulsions and poor moments have affected him, but not his underlying quality. He stressed his job is to correct when needed while continuing to encourage.

The Portuguese added that Carrascal’s application in training is total, and said the midfielder will overcome this period through exhaustive, professional work. He noted that form fluctuates, with some players rising as others dip.

Carrascal is suspended by the STJD, so Flamengo stay in Rio to face Bahia on Sunday 19 at the Maracanã. Kick-off is 19:30 Brasília time in the 11th round of the Brasileirão.

Source: Coluna Do Fla