Pato still holds out Copa hope

Brazil striker Alexandre Pato is optimistic he will be able to play in the Copa America despite a right shoulder injury sustained in the final Italian league match.

Pato told local media that he is ''happy with the progress of his recovery'' and will work hard to be fit in time for the South American tournament that begins in July.

AC Milan doctors had said the Brazilian would miss the Copa America because of the injury, but Brazil doctor Jose Luiz Runco said there still might be enough time for him to recover.

Runco said ''it's too early to rule him out'' of the tournament.

Brazil coach Mano Menezes won't announce the final Copa America squad until after Brazil plays Romania in a friendly on June 7.