EPL, Premiership, English Premier League

Chelsea have been hindered by a recent string of injuries including Deco who who obtained a torn muscle in his upper thigh while warming up before the game against Manchester United (Chelsea tied Manchester Utd 1-1). Carvalho also suffered an injury with a torn ligament in his knee which will likely leave him out for at least a month.

Fortunately, Deco’s disappearance could be made easier by the potential appearance of Brazilian midfielder Mineiro. “Mineiro is a player I need because I lost Essien for six months and only John Mikel Obi is there for us” said Scolari. “He won’t play this week but maybe after 10 days he will play. He needs to play in the reserve team and needs some time but that is good for me because he gives me some options.” Both Birmingham and Arsenal were reportedly interested in Mineiro but opted not to sign him.

Muricy Ramalho, his coach at Sao Paolo described him in superhuman terms. “The guy is incredible. He runs so much at times it makes you wonder whether he has got three lungs, not two, like the rest of us.” Mineiro is a defensive midfielder who played for BSC Hertha Berlin before joining Chelsea. The 33 year was nicknamed ‘Mineiro’ because he resembles a former Corinthian player, his real name is actually Carlos Luciano da Silva.