QPR keeper Julio Cesar is grateful for Brazil coach Luiz Felipe Scolari's assurances that his international place is not at risk even if he struggles for game time with the Championship club. The 34 year old has described his predicament at QPR as "confusing" but is encouraged by the backing given to him by his national boss.

"Look, that [Scolari's comments] surprised me too," he told Sportv.

"It's another situation where Scolari is protecting me.

"I have to keep my consistency at QPR, and after the confusing transfer situation, I have to play well in the next eight months and be among the players called up [for the World Cup]."