Kaka has Alves' backing

Kaka: Questionable form

Barcelona full-back Daniel Alves has rebuffed suggestions his Brazil team-mate Kaka is unfit ahead of this summer's World Cup.

Brazil are favourites to win the tournament for a sixth time in South Africa but talisman Kaka has endured an indifferent first season with his club Real Madrid.

The former AC Milan star moved to the Santiago Bernabeu in a £59million deal last summer but a persistent thigh injury has hampered his form.

The problem has resurfaced over the past two months, prompting concerns over his ability to play to his full potential on the biggest stage this summer.

However, Kaka has received the backing of his compatriot Alves, who has no such concerns as Dunga bids to join an elite band of individuals to win the World Cup as both a player and a manager.

"Nobody here is even thinking that Kaka will not be in top form at the World Cup," insisted Alves, who has no qualms about being the tournament's favourites.

"The title of being favourites is good for people outside, but for us on the inside, we know that to win a match or a competition, you have to work hard and shut out everything."

Brazil kick-off their campaign against North Korea on 15th June and also take on Portugal and Ivory Coast in a difficult Group G.