Liverpool handed boost as Brazil name Neymar replacement for Copa America

Liverpool have been handed a boost after Brazil named their replacement for Neymar for this summer's Copa America.

The Paris Saint-Germain superstar will miss the tournament after suffering an ankle injury in Brazil's final warm-up game against Qatar.

Alisson and Roberto Firmino linked up with the Selecao in midweek after lifting the Champions League with the Reds, but Fabinho was controversially left out of Tite's initial squad.

Brazil's Fabinho (right) and Roberto Firmino during the training session at London Colney (Steven Paston/PA Wire)

And the Reds' holding midfielder has again been overlooked with Brazil calling up Chelsea's Willian instead in place of Neymar.

Ahead of a busy season which will see Liverpool compete for seven trophies, Jurgen Klopp will be relieved that one of his most important players will get the summer off and be free to report for the start of pre-season training without disruption next month.

Meanwhile, Neymar's absence also ensures Firmino looks set to play a starring role for Brazil this summer.

Feeling his way back from a groin injury during the final month of the season, the forward returned to start in the Champions League final against Tottenham Hotspur.

Richarlison amongst players to congratulate Alisson & Firmino upon arrival at Brazil training camp

And following his return he'll be hopeful of being first-choice for Brazil as they host the Copa America having had to play reserve to Manchester City's Gabriel Jesus at the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

Hosts Brazil will kick off the tournament on Saturday June 15 against Bolivia at 1.30am BST.