Neymar Jr: Messi was a great help when I first arrived

Neymar Jr has been one of the biggest centres of attention during the international break, and most especially for his superb goal in the 4-1 win in Montevideo that has thrown Brazil way into the lead in the South American qualifying zone.

He’s been rewarded with the chance to wear the captain’s armband for the 5-time world champions in tonight game in Peru.

“This is the best moment of my career” he says. “And I hope I can keep this up to help my team-mates.”

He was also asked about Leo Messi and Luis Suárez, the other two thirds of the famous trident, answering that “I have a wonderful relationship with them both. And that helps a lot on the field.”

“Messi helped me a lot when I first arrived. Someone who has won who knows how many Ballon d’Or trophies came up to me and told me not to worry, just to play the way I know and things would come naturally.”

Does Neymar Jr think he too could be lifting the coveted ball of gold one day? He humbly prefers not to get drawn into comparisons. “Messi is the best player I have ever played with” he says. “I have learned so much from him. I just try to get better every day – but I’m not aiming to be better than anybody.”