Spurs got their Carling Cup defence off to the perfect start with a 2-1 win at Newcastle. See the latest outright betting here.

Ronaldinho has been dropped from the Brazil squad for next month’s World Cup qualifiers.

The national coach has refused to rule out the possibility of the former World Player of the Year returning to the squad, but admits he needs time to get his club form back on track.

“We believe in Ronaldinho,” he said.

“He needs more practice time, more rhythm. He will improve.”

Meanwhile, Ronaldinho’s Milan team-mate Kaka has been recalled after recovering from a knee problem. Teenage prodigy Pato had been left out of the last two qualifiers but returns after impressing for Milan at club level.

“He is talented,” Dunga added.

“He is a young player and you have to let him grow naturally. You have to have patience.”

Brazil currently sit second in the South American qualifying group, behind leaders Paraguay.

Brazil squad:
Goalkeepers: Julio Cesar (Inter), Doni (Roma).
Defenders: Maicon (Inter), Daniel Alves (Barcelona), Kleber (Santos), Lucio (Bayern Munich), Alex (Chelsea), Juan (Roma), Thiago Silva (Fluminense), Juan Maldonado (Flamengo).
Midfielders: Elano (Manchester City), Gilberto Silva (Panathinaikos), Josue (Wolfsburg), Anderson (Manchester United), Lucas (Liverpool), Julio Baptista (Roma), Mancini (Inter), Kaka (Milan).
Forwards: Luis Fabiano (Sevilla), Alexandre Pato (Milan), Robinho (Manchester City), Jo (Manchester City).

Spurs got their Carling Cup defence off to the perfect start with a 2-1 win at Newcastle. See the latest outright betting here.