Kaka replaces Philippe Coutinho in Brazil squad

Liverpool playmaker Philippe Coutinho has been replaced in the Brazil squad by Kaka for next month's friendly encounters against Costa Rica and the USA.

It appeared that 33-year-old Kaka had played his last game for the Selecao following his omission from the squads for the World Cup in 2014 and this summer's Copa America.

However, his form for Orlando City in the MLS has captured the attention of head coach Dunga, who has handed him Coutinho's place in the selection.

"We gave [Coutinho] a chance in Copa America. You can't build with just youngsters, you need experience to help, Dunga told reporters.

"Kaka is important on the pitch but also outside it and especially in the locker room. He is a reference for the rest to look at."

Kaka has won 89 caps, from which he has found the net on 29 occasions.

Brazil squad

Goalkeepers: Jefferson (Botafogo), Marcelo Grohe (Gremio), Alisson (Internacional)

Defenders: David Luiz (PSG), Marquinhos (PSG), Miranda (Inter), Gabriel Paulista (Arsenal), Dani Alves (Barcelona), Filipe Luis (Atletico Madrid), Danilo (Real Madrid), Douglas Santos (Atletico Mineiro)

Midfielders: Luiz Gustavo (Wolfsburg), Fernandinho (Manchester City), Elias (Corinthians), Ramires (Chelsea), Oscar (Chelsea), Willian(Chelsea), Lucas Lima (Santos), Kaka (Orlando City)

Forwards: Roberto Firmino (Liverpool), Neymar (Barcelona), Lucas Moura (PSG), Hulk (Zenit), Douglas Costa (Bayern Munich)