Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus is not expected to be fit in time for Brazil’s match against Colombia on Thursday night.
Jesus has not played since October 24 after injuring his hamstring in the Gunners’ 2-1 win over Sevilla in the Champions League.
The striker has nonetheless been called up by Brazil ahead of their World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina.
Jesus is not expected to be fit for Brazil’s game against Colombia but it is hoped he can feature against Argentina on Tuesday.
Brazil are currently training at their base near Rio de Janeiro and Jesus has been able to take part in some of the sessions.
The 26-year-old, however, was not working with the team for the main part of yesterday’s session as he gets back to full fitness.
Arsenal have been wary about rushing Jesus back as he has already struggled with injuries this season.
The Brazilian missed the start of the campaign after having knee surgery and his absence has hindered Arsenal’s attack.
Under FIFA rules, Brazil were within their rights to call up Jesus for this international break and they will keep in touch with Arsenal during it.
In Jesus’ expected absence from Thursday night’s game, Brazil are expected to field an attacking front-four that will include Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli.
His Arsenal team-mate, Gabriel Magalhaes, is also pushing to start in the heart of defence after impressing and scoring his first goal for Brazil during a draw with Venezuela last month.
