• Firmino was injured in Liverpool’s Capital One Cup victory • Santos striker Ricardo Oliveira replaces him to face Chile and Venezuela

This article is more than 5 years old

This article is more than 5 years old

Liverpool striker Roberto Firmino has withdrawn from the Brazil squad for next month’s World Cup qualifiers and has been replaced by 35-year old former Milan forward Ricardo Oliveira, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) said on Thursday.

Brendan Rodgers running out of time as air of resignation engulfs Liverpool Read more

Firmino was substituted after landing awkwardly in the first half of Liverpool’s League Cup match against Carlisle at Anfield on Wednesday. Liverpool won after a penalty shootout.

“Ricardo Oliveira, the top goalscorer in the Brazilian league with 17 goals, was called up by Brazil coach Dunga,” the CBF said in a statement.

“The Santos striker will take the place of Liverpool striker Firmino, who was released because of injury.’

Brazil, who have never failed to qualify for the World Cup finals, face Chile in Santiago on 8 October and then return home to play Venezuela five days later.

Oliveira has six caps, made his debut for Brazil in 2004 and last played for Brazil in 2006 after the World Cup in Germany.