Neymar 'can play from halftime or the whole 90 minutes': Ancelotti

Carlo Ancelotti has delivered an encouraging update on Neymar ahead of Brazil's decisive World Cup group-stage clash against Scotland, declaring the veteran forward fully fit and ready to play after recovering from a calf injury.

The Brazil coach said Neymar has trained strongly throughout the week and is available to feature for either part or all of Wednesday's match in Miami Gardens, Florida, as the Selecao look to secure their place in the Round of 32.

"He is available, he trained very well this week," Ancelotti said on Tuesday. "He is fit and able and ready to play. We are very happy he is back. He is a high-quality player."

Ancelotti added that the 34-year-old's professionalism during his recovery has impressed the coaching staff and underlined his importance to the squad.

"He can play from halftime or the whole 90 minutes. He is very well, he worked very hard, so he is ready. His attitude is very good, he's in good spirits, he's a good player, a good teammate. He's very serious and we want to get him back to playing as soon as possible," said the Italian.

"I'm very happy. He brings experience, knowledge -- he is doing very well."

While Neymar's return boosts Brazil, the five-time champions will be without Barcelona winger Raphinha, who has been ruled out with a hamstring injury sustained during Friday's 3-0 victory over Haiti. The 29-year-old was forced off in the 40th minute and will miss the final Group C encounter.

Ancelotti confirmed he has already decided who will replace Raphinha but declined to reveal his plans. Bournemouth teenager Rayan, who came on for the injured winger against Haiti, is among the candidates after earning praise for his performance.

"We're thinking of nothing else but playing a good match with the best possible lineup," Ancelotti said. "We have a clear idea of who will replace Raphinha."

Brazil enter the match with four points from two games and need only a draw against Scotland to guarantee progression to the knockout stage. Scotland, meanwhile, sit on three points and still have qualification hopes of their own.

In the group's other fixture, Morocco, also on four points, take on Haiti in Atlanta as the race for the top spots reaches its conclusion.