Brazil attacker Neymar is pushing to be available for Monday's World Cup 2022 last-16 showdown with South Korea at Stadium 974.

The 30-year-old has been absent from his side's last two matches due to an ankle injury, but he has been stepping up his recovery and is due to return to full training over the weekend.

Brazil doctor Rodrigo Lasmar has said that Neymar is in with a chance of coming back for Monday's battle, but Tite has lost Gabriel Jesus and Alex Telles for the remainder of the tournament after both men sustained knee problems in Friday's 1-0 loss to Cameroon.

Alex Sandro (hip) and Danilo (ankle) are also doubts for the contest, but the former is thought to have the best chance of being available, so he may be forced into a makeshift left-back role as Eder Militao starts on the right-hand side.

Marquinhos deputised at left-back off the bench on Friday following Telles's injury but will now resume centre-back duties alongside Thiago Silva, as Alisson Becker replaces Ederson in goal.

Casemiro will also expect to displace Fabinho in the engine room, where Neymar could link up with the Manchester United man and Lucas Paqueta if he is given the green light to return.

For all of Gabriel Martinelli's strong work down the left against Cameroon, his efforts went unrewarded, and Vinicius Junior is sure to replace his fellow youngster in the XI this week.

Raphinha should also come back in for Antony, while the stricken Jesus - who was quiet on Friday evening before his tournament-ending injury - was always expected to drop out for Richarlison.

Brazil possible starting lineup: Alisson; Militao, Marquinhos, Silva, Danilo; Paqueta, Casemiro, Neymar; Raphinha, Richarlison, Vinicius Jr

> Click here to see how South Korea could line up for this match

Written by
Ben Knapton