Goalkeeper Julio Cesar has revealed that there is "huge sadness" within the Brazil squad after Neymar was ruled out of the World Cup through injury.

Neymar broke a vertebra in his spine during the closing stages of Brazil's 2-1 victory over Colombia, but despite acknowledging that the Barcelona star will be devastated by the injury, Cesar believes that his teammate would have a positive message for the rest of the squad.

The 34-year-old is quoted by The Mirror as saying: "Knowing that he can't play any more is a huge sadness. We know how much Ney wanted to shine at this World Cup and how much happiness that he feels bringing joy to the Brazilian people.

"He's a spectacular kid. I think that if he had to send us a message right now, he'd say 'Guys, keep your heads up and I'll be with you on the 13th'."

Brazil will attempt to move a step closer their sixth World Cup trophy when they play Germany in the semi-finals on Tuesday.

Written by
Darren Plant