Gilberto Sings Scolari’s Praises
June 28, 2008
Gilberto Sings Scolari’s Praises
The Blues’ appointment of the man who led Brazil to their fifth World Cup in 2002 has certainly captured the imagination, and the enthusiasm is clearly not limited to the extended Chelsea family.
“At the 2002 World Cup he was a fantastic manager and a fantastic man,” said Gilberto, who knows ‘Big Phil’ very well from their time together with the ‘Selecao’.
“He was like a father to us. It was as if we were all under his arm.
“He took all the responsibility and shielded us from any negatives.
“He kept any criticism away from the dressing room and allowed us to play without fear,” he added.
“For me he was extra special. I was one of the newer players in the squad, but he made me feel every bit as important as Ronaldo.”
Gilberto, 31, certainly has been in talkative mood since he arrived in the Brazilian training camp, as yesterday he also sprung something of a surprise by insisting that it is still undecided whether he will elect to extend his Arsenal career.
Scolari, in the meanwhile, could be set for the perfect swansong, as Portugal have become early favourites to achieve glory in Austria and Switzerland this month after their blistering start to EURO 2008.