‘PSG can’t count on Neymar for six to eight weeks’

PSG and Brazil star Neymar was diagnosed with an ankle sprain and a metatarsal hairline fracture following an injury and the player’s father believes that it is absurd that anyone can think his son is thinking of playing in the second leg against Real Madrid.

PSG lost the first leg at the Bernabeu 3-1, in a game where Neymar showcased flashes of his skills but ultimately the Brazil star was outshined by Real star Cristiano Ronaldo, who showed up with a brace.

Neymar’s father expected his son to be out for upto eight weeks. "PSG know that they can't count on Neymar for the next six to eight weeks," Neymar Sr told ESPN Brazil.

"Yes, of course he is out against Real Madrid. It is absurd if anybody thinks otherwise."

PSG coach Unai Emery had felt that there is a slim chance that the player can feature in the match against Real Madrid, However, he was pessimistic yesterday as he said: "Today, after analysing Neymar, it looks less likely than it did on Sunday that he'll be ready for this match."

PSG already have a 14-point lead at the top of League 1 and the Champions League is something they were looking forward to this season. Neymar could potentially play the match with pain killers but he will risk aggravating the injury. Report from Brazil had suggested that their star player may go under the knife for surgery -- which would absolutely rule him out of the second leg against Real. However, with the World Cup scheduled for June 14 this year, Brazil is not keen on seeing their prized asset's chances of playing the World Cup jeopardized. Should Neymar play against Real and risk aggravating his injury, he might carry that problem to the World Cup -- a scenario that Brazil national team would llike to avoid.

In case a surgery is required, Neymar will get adequate time to come back following recuperation and take part in the World Cup.

Neymar’s father said that the situation is not guaranteed yet and they are still waiting on more expert opinions but suggested that PSG should get the hint and put Neymar first before their Champions League aspirations.

"There is no other option. We are waiting to speak to PSG to resolve the situation. It's not Neymar's decision, it's not his to make. He's not a doctor and nor am I.

"Now the Brazil national team doctor will come and together we will take a decision. We will decide tomorrow [Wednesday]. We didn't want to be in this situation, but we must try to get Neymar back to his best,’ Neymar Sr concluded.