Rafael Scheidt - Making up for lost time
Discovered at Grêmio by Felipe Scolari, Rafael Scheidt has had a career hampered by injury. But at 29 years, the central defender and captain of Botafogo is back to full fitness and is eager to catch up on lost time.
sambafoot.com
How do feel at Botafogo right now?
ScheidtI really feel great. I arrived last year when the club was having difficulties in the Brazilian championship. The club took me as I was returning after 6 months off after an operation. Everyone was very sympathic with me and that helped me get back. I still thank the club and I try everyday to help the team to achieve its objectives. My family is very happy here and I’m enjoying my time here.
sambafoot.com
You worked under Felipe Scolari at Grêmio, winning the Copa Libertadores in 1995. What could you tell us about Felipão? Are you still in contact with him?
Scheidt
He has discovered me when I played for the youth team at Grêmio and gave me the chance to turn professional. I owe him a lot because he gave me that opportunity. Unfortunately, it’s a long time since we last met. The last time was back in 2002 when I played for Corinthians, we quickly crossed in the airport. I enormously admire his character and I wish one day to work with him again.
sambafoot.com
You were one of rare Brazilians to have played in Scotland. What can you say to us about your experience?
Scheidt
This experience unfortunately was not good for me because I almost did not play. I was quickly injured and I was far away from the pitch for nearly 9 months. Nevertheless, the stay in Scotland was enriching for me and my family. Professionally it was really difficult.... I could not show my real value and my potential which had me selected in national team in 1999.
sambafoot.com
Precisely, you were called up 4 times in 1999 to play for the Brazilian National Team and then no nothing... Why do you feel you didn’t get recalled?
Scheidt
It is during this time that I was injured. Then coach Wanderley Luxemburgo contacted me three times asking about my fitness. With time, logically I lost my place. I had one extraordinary year 1999 with these 4 games for the selection but my injury was my downfall.
sambafoot.com
Do you hope to be called again again?
Scheidt
I think that that really will be difficult as time passes! Parreira appears to have identified his group for the next World cup. But I think every player has to be ambitious and objectives to help them progress and motivate.
sambafoot.com
What do you think about the central defense of the Seleção and the pairing of Lucio-Roque Junior? Do you agree with the criticisms directed towards the defense?
ScheidtI do not think that the defense is bad. Lucio and Roque Junior both won the world title in 2002 and are right-hand men of Parreira. We must respect the idea of the Coach because they are two players of talent who both play in Europe for big clubs.
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