FORMER Brazil star Rivaldo, who was a target for Celtic in 2001, is ready to make a comeback – at the age of 43!
The ex-world great is considering coming out of retirement and will start training again with Brazilian Second Division outfit Mogi Mirim.
Rivaldo, who is club president of the minnows, made the announcement with the team bottom of the league and seeking inspiration.
FIFA’s Player of the Year admitted he might play “in a few matches”, depending on how he performs during training. He said he hopes his “experience” will help the team “overcome this difficult moment”.Mogi Mirim have only three points from eight matches and are the only team without a win so far in the Second Division.
Rivaldo, who retired from playing in March last year, was a target for former Hoops boss Martin O’Neill when he was released by Cruzierio at the age of 32.
O’Neill invited the Brazilian midfielder to go with the Parkhead team on their pre-season tour of America which sparked an amazing row with the player’s agent aiming a verbal blast at the Irishman.
Representative Carlos Arime said: “People will be crying tears of laughter when they hear Celtic wanted to take Rivaldo on trial.
“My client has been one of the best players in the world for many years and I don’t think he needs to play friendly games in order to prove himself.
“How dare Martin O’Neill ask Rivaldo to go for a trial in America. That is an insult to my client and to football.
“What kind of mentality is that? Big-name players will not be attracted to Celtic if that’s O’Neill’s attitude.”
The former Barcelona and AC Milan playmaker joined Greek giants Olympiakos instead on a three-year contract.
