Atlético Mineiro defender Leonardo Silva has admitted that in-form striker Fred will need special attention during his side’s game with Fluminense tomorrow.
- Fluminense captain Fred could be recalled for the Seleção in November
- Fred closes in on 100 goals for Fluminense
- Fluminense head coach Abel Braga admits Ronaldinho will require ‘special’ marking
The 29-year-old forward is currently the Brasileirão’s leading goalscorer this season, having found the net 15 times in 22 appearances.
Fred will be hoping to find the net against Atlético Mineiro tomorrow, especially as he has scored 99 goals for the club and one more would make him the 15th all-time goalscorer.
However, Leonardo Silva and his side will be looking to stop the Fluminense captain as soon as he is within shooting distance.
Silva said: “Fred is a striker who is living a very good moment. We have to be very careful. Not only with him but with the entire team that makes the ball arrive at his feet.
“It does not have to be all the time, but according to his movement. It’s the responsibility of the full-backs to be aware of his movement, positioning him on the field so we cannot let it end with ease.
“He is a player who finishes well and cannot have space. Whenever he is within our area we have to be concerned and watch him.”
The defender also stressed the importance of tomorrow’s game at the Independência, as second-placed Mineiro will be looking to gain ground on league leaders Fluminense.
“Everyone expects a great game due to the circumstances. Everyone will stop to watch,” he added.
