Having not played since the match against Internacional on September 8, midfielder Roger, who underwent physical recovery work and is still recovering from a muscle injury, made himself available to coach Joel Santana this Monday to play at least part of the game against São Paulo, this Thursday, for the Brazilian Championship.

"I've been planning to return since the game against Juventude, and unfortunately it hasn't been possible. I had a good training session, I didn't push myself too hard, but on the other hand, I didn't feel any pain, so I hope the muscle doesn't let me down again and I can finally get back to playing. Being out is always very bad."

The player, who only participated in part of the tactical training session among the starters, said he considered Joel's decision to be correct, as he initially did not intend to use him alongside Ibson, another player who is returning after a muscle injury.

"It's the right thing to do. We can't afford to play against the best team in the competition with two players coming off a long layoff. I'm available to start the match or sit on the bench waiting for an opportunity. If I can play 15 to 20 minutes and feel the warmth of this crowd again, which will surely fill the Maracanã, I'll be satisfied."