China-based striker Tardelli gets Brazil Copa America call

Brazil coach Dunga on Tuesday included Shandong Luneng striker Diego Tardelli in his 23-man squad for the Copa America in Chile.

Al-Ahli midfielder Everton Ribeiro was also named for the June 11-July 4 tournament as Dunga kept to his promise of considering players from non-European clubs.

The biggest surprise was the absence of midfielder Oscar due to an unspecified injury while training for Chelsea.

"We spoke with (Chelsea manager Jose) Mourinho and the doctor at Chelsea and his recuperation will take time and he won't be at his best during the Copa America," Dunga said during a press conference.

Oscar's club colleagues Willian and Filipe Luis were among those named while Philippe Coutinho (Liverpool) and Fernandinho ( Manchester City) are the English Premier League's other representatives.

Tardelli, who missed the Selecao's March friendlies against France and Chile with a knee injury, is the first China-based player to be called up to Brazil's national team.

Dunga admitted that he and Ribeiro would be under greater scrutiny to perform than their teammates.

"As I have said before, those players who are not in traditional leagues will be under more pressure," Dunga said. " They will have to be prepared for that pressure and provide something extra to remain in the group."

Tardelli, who has made just seven appearances for Shandong Luneng, did not hide his delight at being chosen.

"I don't have words to describe my happiness," he said in a media statement.

"I was really anxious because I couldn't play in the last friendlies and I didn't know what would happen because the competition for places is high. I really appreciate the confidence shown in me by Dunga and all of the coaching staff.

"I will do all I can to repay that faith on the pitch with a lot of dedication.

When asked how he felt about being the first player from a Chinese club to represent the Selecao, the 29-year-old replied: " It's one more reason to be proud."

He added: "Ever since I was a kid I have dreamed of playing for Brazil and now I'm getting the chance to be involved in a Copa America. To play for the national team is a dream come true and I can't wait to go out on the pitch and help the team fight for another title."

The Selecao will begin their Copa America campaign against Peru on June 14 and will also meet Colombia and Venezuela in the group phase.

Dunga's side will warm up for the June 11-July 4 tournament with home friendlies against Mexico and Honduras in early June.

Brazil have won the Copa America eight times, including victory at the 2007 tournament in Venezuela during Dunga's first spell as Selecao coach.

This year's edition will feature the 10 member nations of South America's Conmebol confederation, in addition to Mexico and Jamaica. Endite