Brazil coach Dunga insists the fitness of his players is his greatest concern ahead of tonight's friendly against Republic of Ireland at the Emirates Stadium.

The five-time world champions are putting the final touches to their preparations before the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ and Dunga has revealed he will make a host of changes during the match to try to ensure his squad do not pick up injuries.

He said: "The thing that is the most important for us is bringing the players back to the clubs without injury. Some played on Sunday, some 10 hours ago. The players might be tired and we need to ensure we don't get injured. For the rest, it's normal - we'll make some substitutions so that as many as possible can play. We don't want players injured for the World Cup."

Meanwhile, Brazil midfielder Gilberto Silva insists England's FIFA World Cup challenge will not be weakened following their recent controversies and problems. Fabio Capello stripped John Terry of the captaincy following allegations involving the ex-girlfriend of Wayne Bridge, who has made himself unavailable for international football - and his key player Ashley Cole is out with a serious ankle injury.

The thing that is the most important for us is bringing the players back to the clubs without injury.
Brazil coach Dunga

However, former Arsenal midfielder Gilberto said: "I think that is a concern but we cannot, as a possible opponent of England, focus on that and think that this kind of thing can disturb them. England is a very strong squad, a very strong team. We know that. Some of the England players are in very good form. They can do a lot in South Africa. It will be a tough tournament for everyone who wants to win. We will fight for it."

Gilberto feels that Wayne Rooney's form means England will be among the contenders in South Africa this summer. "Of course, we look at Rooney very closely, especially if we have to face England," said Gilberto, who could face England in the semi-finals of the tournament.

Comparing Rooney to the likes of Kaka, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, he added: "You can say he is at the same level as them. He is doing very well. Year by year, he becomes better and better by the experience that he is getting over the years and I am sure he can do a lot for England this summer.