Adriano vows to return in 2013

File photo shows Brazil's Adriano during the Brazil vs Ghana round of 16 World Cup soccer match at Dortmund's Stadium, Germany on June 27, 2006.

Former Brazil striker Adriano has promised to return to the football pitch this year.

Sacked by Flamengo in November for repeated breach of discipline, the 30-year-old claimed to be training in preparation for a comeback. He also revealed he has received invitations from clubs, but neglected to specify which sides had been in contact with his agent, reports Xinhua .

“I deeply appreciate my fans who continue to support me. They know I am training hard and am determined to make a return. I hope that 2013 will be a successful year,” he said.

Adriano rejoined Flamengo last August but lasted only 76 days at the Rio de Janeiro outfit after missing training on six separate occasions. During his short spell at the club he failed to make a single first-team appearance.

He has also faced a constant battle with his weight in recent years. At the time of his November departure he allegedly tipped the scales at 110kg.

Adriano won the Brazilian championship with Flamengo in 2009 and was the league’s top scorer with 19 goals. But since that time his career has been on a downward trajectory.

In the last two-and-half years, the striker has managed just 17 official games, scoring two goals.