Jo to miss early season games

Barcelona's Ronaldinho and Real Madrid forward Robinho will lead Brazil's assault on a first Olympic football gold in Beijing in August.

Manchester United midfielder Anderson is one of three Premier League players selected in the 18-man squad.

Manchester City's new record signing Jo, Liverpool midfielder Lucas Leiva and Anderson will all miss the start of the new season.

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A blow for the club given that Brazil's Olympic challenge begins on August 8th, a week prior to the Premier League season, which could disrupt his ability to settle at the club and in the city.

The participation in the UEFA Cup first qualifying round will at least afford him the opportunity of a pair of 'comptetive' games with the side before he jets off but there is no doubt that it will stall his fledgling career at the club to a degree - even more so given the likelihood of Brazil getting through to the latter stages of the competition.

The selection of Jo could also have an effect on potential player movement within the striking department of Mark Hughes may want to keep cover at the club for those early weeks, meaning one or more of this trio may be around until Christmas at least.