Ronaldinho named in Brazil championship team of the year

Rio de Janeiro, Nov 24 (IANS) Two−time FIFA world player of the year Ronaldinho was named in the Brazilian championship’s team of the season.

The former Barcelona and AC Milan star was one of four players from Atletico Mineiro to be selected in the starting lineup, reports Xinhua.

Champions Fluminense also boasted four players, including Brazil international striker Fred, who was named the competition’s most valuable player.

The 29−year−old former Lyon star has scored 19 top−flight goals with two matches still remaining.

He joined teammates Diego Cavalieri, Carlinhos and Jean in the all−star lineup while Marcos Rocha, Leonardo Silva, Rever and Ronaldinho were chosen from Atletico Mineiro.

“We could have had even more players given the quality we have at the club,” Fluminense coach Abel Braga said.

“Thiago Neves and Wellington Nem were sensational but in the end we were very well represented.”

Corinthians and Brazil midfielder Paulinho, Sao Paulo winger Lucas and Santos striker Neymar were the other players included.

Brazilian Championship 2012 Team of the Year:

Goalkeeper: Diego Cavalieri (Fluminense)

Defenders: Marcos Rocha (Atletico Mineiro), Carlinhos (Fluminense), Rever (Atletico Mineiro), Leonardo Silva (Atletico Mineiro)

Midfielders: Paulinho (Corinthians), Jean (Fluminense), Lucas (Sao Paulo) Ronaldinho (Atletico Mineiro)

Strikers: Neymar (Santos), Fred (Fluminense)

Coach: Abel Braga (Fluminense)

Best young player: Bernard (Atletico Mineiro)

Most valuable player: Fred (Fluminense).

IANS 2012-11-24 15:46:13