Fernandinho backs Brazil for World Cup glory

Fernandinho says Brazil are favourites to lift the FIFA World Cup, with the Manchester City man desperate to play a part in the showpiece.

The 28-year-old made the switch to the Premier League in the close-season, bringing an end to his eight-year stay at Ukrainian champions Shakhtar Donetsk.

That move was taken in part to boost the midfielder’s chances of forcing his way into the national set up, with Brazil set to host the showpiece in 2014.

And Fernandinho feels that home advantage puts his country in a strong position to win the tournament.

“I believe Brazil is the major favourite,” he told Perform. “We’ll be playing at home with the crowd support. It is something we Brazilians haven’t seen in a long time.

“Brazil had great performances and played good football during the Confederations Cup. Obviously there are other teams in good shape as well who are well prepared, but I believe Brazil is a strong contender to win the title.”

Fernandinho is keen to give national coach Luiz Felipe Scolari plenty to think about in the coming months as the hosts continue their build-up to the tournament, and he knows that the best way to do that is by performing consistently at club level.

His switch to City has seen the former Atletico Paranaense man employed in a more defensive midfield role, after being utilised as an attacking midfielder at Shakhtar.

And he is hopeful that the switch will convince Scolari to make him a more regular feature for Brazil, with Fernandinho having won just five caps for his country so far.

He added: “I’m doing this new role here at City. What really surprise me is that I’m having good performances recovering possession.

“I don’t know, but perhaps Big Phil (Scolari) is watching it and if I have the opportunity to play for Selecao (Brazil) doing this role I would be extremely happy.

“I’m working hard each day in every match with that in mind. I watched many interviews with Scolari and he said there are still some available spots, and he is watching all players.

“I honestly believe that I’m doing everything I can to make it happen.”