Junior: 'Difficult for Miranda to make Brazil squad'

Former Brazil international Junior has admitted that it will be difficult for Atletico Madrid centre-back Miranda to make Luiz Felipe Scolari's squad for the World Cup this summer.

Miranda has been one of the most impressive defenders in Europe this season, with his performances helping Atletico to the top of La Liga and into the semi-finals of the Champions League.

However, Junior, who represented Brazil at the 1982 World Cup, has said that the strength of Brazil's central defence could work against the 29-year-old.

"Miranda is also an option but there aren't any vacancies with Thiago Silva and David Luiz," Junior told AS.

"Dante's there too. Miranda must fight for another spot. It's possible."

Junior, however, believes that Miranda's Atletico teammate Filipe Luis will make the squad.