Vasco impose media silence after Romario outburst

Vasco da Gama have imposed a media silence after striker Romario, chasing the 1,000th goal of his career, publicly criticised a team-mate.

Coach Renato Portaluppi and his players left yesterday's training session without giving interviews and a spokesman said they would not talk again until after today's match against Botafogo at the Maracana.

On Sunday, 41-year-old Romario hit back at suggestions from team mate Leandro Amaral that the attention surrounding his attempt to score his 1,000th goal was putting pressure on the team.

"Of course, responsibility is a problem for some players and if he (Leandro Amaral) says it's a problem, he should go and play for a smaller club," said Romario.

Vasco have lost their last three games and have changed their playing style in an attempt to create chances for the former Brazil striker.

Romario says his career total, which he admits includes goals from youth, testimonial and friendly games, stands at 999.

He has made it clear that he wants to reach the milestone at the Maracana stadium, his favourite venue, and has sat out Vasco's last two matches away from the arena.