No way Neymar can play in World Cup final'

The forward was initially ruled out of action for at least a month with a broken vertebra but it was then claimed that he could make a rapid return with the right treatment

There is "no way" that injured Brazil forward Neymar could play any further part in World Cup 2014, according to Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) medical chief Jose Luis Runco.

The Barcelona attacker suffered a fractured vertebra in his country's quarter-final win over Colombia and was promptly ruled out of the remainder of the tournament.

Reports subsequently surfaced that Neymar could be fit for any final appearance by the host nation with the aid of an intensive treatment plan put together by the player's former club, Santos.

However, those rumours have been quashed by Dr. Runco during an interview with ESPN.

"Absolutely no way he's playing a World Cup final," the CBF's medical chief declared. "He may follow the group, okay, but there's no chance of being on the pitch. There's just no way this could happen."

Runco's stance was backed up by the CBF, who explained that Neymar has been told to rest at home until after the World Cup is over.

“We clarify that the visit by the Santos FC's doctors that took place yesterday [Sunday] was only a cordial measure,” read a statement.

"The club from Santos has made available its entire structure for Neymar Jr's treatment and recovery after the World Cup is over.

“The reports [of him playing the final] are not true, as Neymar is under care of the CBF medical chief, Dr. Jose Luis Runco, until the tournament is over.

"He was the one responsible for allowing the athlete's leave to continue his treatment - complete rest - at home with his family. The player is being followed on a daily basis by his private physiotherapist.”