Elano injury blow for Brazil

Brazil midfielder Elano could miss the remainder of the World Cup as he struggles to recover from an ankle injury.

Elano, 29, has been ruled out of Friday’s quarter-final against Netherlands and, while it is hoped he will recover in time for the semi-final next Tuesday, there are fears the problem could be more severe.

The player suffered the injury during Brazil’s 3-1 win over Ivory Coast and limped out of a training session on Tuesday.

“He can walk and run without changing direction. The problem is the impact, when he puts weight on it,” team doctor Jose Luiz Runco told reporters. “The bone is swollen inside.

“He could be better in a few days, a week or a month. We still hope he can play next week but I can’t say that categorically. He is working intensely so we have to see if nature can give a helping hand.”

The news will be a significant concern for Dunga, with Felipe Melo and Julio Baptista already doubtful through injury. Ramires will also be unavailable against Netherlands through suspension.