South American football expert Tim Vickery believes Brazil are taking a risk by selecting Gabriel Martinelli in their squad for the World Cup in Qatar and leaving out Liverpool's Roberto Firmino.
Martinelli was something of a surprise inclusion when the Selecao squad was confirmed on Monday. The squad had been 'leaked' prior to the official announcement and the Arsenal youngster was not included. So it was a surprise to see his name on the official squad sheet later in the day.
Liverpool striker Firmino was not included, however, despite eight goals for the Reds already this season and a total of 17 goals in 55 appearances for the national team. Tottenham's Richarlison was included, as was Martinelli's Arsenal teammate Gabriel Jesus.
READ MORE: Arsenal face World Cup squad blow as Brazil surprise gives Mikel Arteta mentality challenge
And Vickery believes there is also a worrying question regarding superstar Neymar when it comes to the Brazil squad for the World Cup. Speaking about Martinelli's inclusion, Vickery told Sky Sports: "Gabriel Martinelli has given the coach [Tite] sleepless nights, I was with the coach two or three weeks ago and after Arsenal had beaten Liverpool in the coach's words, he was the best player on the field. A month or so ago I don't think Martinelli was in the squad but he has forced his way in through sheer excellence for Arsenal."
Richarlison is Brazil's 'penalty area finisher' according to Vickery, but Martinelli's inclusion, and that of 39-year-old Dani Alves, could leave supporters worried. Particularly if Neymar is to miss any matches.
Vickery added: "Brazil are taking a little bit of a risk here. Martinelli is a wide striker and Brazil have more wide strikers than they know what to do with. What they don't have is a straight replacement for Neymar. In both friendlies they've had recently Neymar picked up yellow cards in both games. He does that in a World Cup and he's suspended.
"They don't have a replacement for him in that false nine position. Firmino was that person, but they've decided to leave him out."
READ NEXT:
What Neymar did as Arsenal star Gabriel Martinelli's Brazil World Cup inclusion was revealed
Brazil boss Tite reveals why Arsenal's Gabriel Martinelli was late World Cup squad addition
Tomiyasu, Marquinhos, Elneny: Arsenal injury news and return dates for Brighton Carabao Cup tie
Gabriel Jesus reacts to Brazil World Cup call-up as Arsenal teammate misses out on Qatar trip
Arsenal news and transfers LIVE: Latest news, rumours and gossip from the Emirates Stadium
