Brazil coach Tite has defended the scratchy form of Manchester City attacker Gabriel Jesus.

Gabriel has struggled for Brazil at the World Cup but Selecao manager Tite refused to say whether he will axe the City forward in favour of Liverpool's Roberto Firmino when the knockout phase gets underway.

“A team is made up of players who have no greater importance than another, but different characteristics," Tite said after last night's win over Serbia.

“Firmino was decisive in the other games, it consumes me, but he has an understanding of his value, that at another time, with or without Gabriel, he can be important. Choices will end up happening."