BRAZIL have reportedly suffered a huge blow with news that Neymar is “doubtful to return” from injury in time for the start of the World Cup knockouts.

The Samba Boys began their quest to win the tournament for a record sixth time by beating Serbia 2-0 thanks to Richarlison's double last week.

However, that victory came at a cost to their talisman when he suffered an ankle injury after his foot rolled following a tough tackle.

That ruled him out of the rest of the group stages, which Brazil have already qualified from with a game to spare after defeating Switzerland on Monday, 

The South American nation play Cameroon on Friday already knowing that top spot is virtually assured.

And we already knew that Neymar, who stayed at the hotel due to sickness for the Swiss clash, and teammate Danilo, who also hurt his ankle against Serbia, were due to miss out.

READ MORE WORLD CUP NEWS

Rashford dedicates goal to late friend, England face Senegal in last-16

Win Sky Sports subscriptions, stadium tours and more with Sun Vegas’s World Cup game

However, TNT Sports from Brazil have provided an update on the conditions of several stars.

And they have cast doubt on whether Neymar will win his fitness battle for the last-16.

They tweeted: “Danilo may return in the round of 16, but Neymar and Alex Sandro continue to treat the injury. Come back soon, players!”

Brazil suffered another injury setback with Alex Sandro ruled out of the game against Cameroon by a hip muscle injury.

Most read in Football

HOW TO GET FREE BETS ON THE WORLD CUP

The Juventus defender was forced off late on against the Swiss and had a scan on Monday.

Brazil's team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar has now confirmed: “It showed muscle injury in the left hip. He will not play the next match.

“He is undergoing treatment so we can recover him as soon as possible.”

Source: Read Full Article