Flamengo presented this afternoon, in the football department, players Fernandão and Everton as the newest reinforcements for the red-black team for the Brazilian Championship.

Midfielder Everton signed a contract until December 2009. At the presentation, the former Paraná player stated that defending the Rio de Janeiro club will be a great challenge in his career.

"It's every player's dream to play for Flamengo. I'm grateful for the opportunity, and I'll give my all to meet expectations. It's a huge challenge for my career, but I'm confident I'm ready. Flamengo is a highly visible club, and I hope to make it to the Brazilian national team."

At 19 years old, Everton arrives at Flamengo recommended by coach Caio Júnior, with whom he worked at Paraná. The new reinforcement said he is in shape and ready to help Flamengo in this Brasileirão.

"I'm ready. I know the Flamengo squad well and I don't think I'll have any problems. Now I have to work hard to be available for Caio Júnior. My strengths include setting up plays for the attackers."

Striker Fernandão arrives at Flamengo after a stint with Maccabi Haifa in Israel. He played in the Campeonato Carioca for América and scored five goals in the competition. Fernandão promised to fight hard to win the trust of the Flamengo fans.

"I hope that at Flamengo I can maintain the good goal average I had at my last clubs. I'll fight hard to earn my place here at Flamengo. It's a dream and a great opportunity. I'm arriving with a lot of desire and excitement. I hope to do well here."

For Fernandão, who is impressive due to his great stature, his best characteristic is his aerial play.

"My biggest weapon is my header. I'm a player who likes to play as a pivot, always looking to play inside the box. I want to score a lot of goals for Flamengo," said the new signing, who signed a contract until December 2008.

Technical specifications of the new reinforcements:

Name: Everton Cardoso da Silva

Date of birth: 11/12/1988

Clubs: Paraná

Name: José Fernando Viana de Santana

Date of birth: 27/03/1987

Clubs: América-RJ and Maccabi Haifa, from Israel

photo: Eduardo Peixoto