Wednesday, February 22, 2012

Adriano back after weight loss, still out of pace

Brazilian football star Adriano has delighted Corinthians with his pre-season weight loss but the club's head coach Tite believes he must now improve his fitness before he is ready for regular action.

The former Internazionale striker made his first start for Corinthians since returning to Brazil almost one year ago, managing 74 minutes in the 1-0 Torneio Paulista win over Sao Caetano.

Corinthians now sit joint-top of the State standings alongside rivals Palmeiras.

Tite is still expecting more hard work from his big-name forward who has been relegated from pitches in the past due ton his weight and confessed drinking problems.

“Just as he reached the condition to be used, he must now look for the intensity. He still needs better fitness. It was a first step but it is still in the process of an evolution.”

Adriano failed to really make an impact during the weekend's game as he struggled for pace and failed to capitalise a couple of goal chances.