Having helped Bayern Munich set a new defensive record, Brazilian centre-back Dante is relishing his chance to make his international debut against England and dangerman Wayne Rooney tomorrow
With his flamboyant hair style, coolness under pressure and ability to launch counter-attacks from the back, Dante has been the rock in a Munich defence which has shipped just seven goals in 20 league matches, a new German record.
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The 29-year-old Dante Bonfim Costa Santos is set to make his international debut at Wembley, a year before his country hosts the World Cup. “I’ve taken the first step. I want to seize this and show my qualities,” he said after catching coach Felipe Scolari’s eye.
Plucked by Bayern from Borussia Moenchengladbach to strengthen their back four, the Brazilian has been a revelation this season, playing in all 20 league games. He is now targeting a regular place in the Brazil team by hoping to help them beat England. He’s also relishing the prospect of facing England striker Wayne Rooney. “I’m really pleased to have got the call and I’m looking forward to the prospect (of facing Rooney),” he said.
“He’s a world-class striker, a high quality player. His movement is fantastic. You have to be right on your game against those sort of players because they can turn a game in a flash.”