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SEAL THE DEAL

Kerlon: Seal dribble king and former Inter and Ajax man signs for Slovakian club Spartak Trnacva

Brazilian was tipped for big things but failed to live up to teenage promise

ONCE upon a time Kerlon was tipped for the top of world football.

His skills were impressing scouts in domestic football and he had been a star for Brazil's Under-17s - named the best player at the 2005 U17 South American Championships.

 'Seal dribbler' Kerlon has signed with Slovakian side Spartak Trnava
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'Seal dribbler' Kerlon has signed with Slovakian side Spartak Trnava

He was even billed as the next Ronaldinho at a time when the buck-toothed Brazilian was the best in the world.

Kerlon then pulled off the infamous "seal dribble" in multiple games and the legend was complete.

Serie A giants Inter Milan bought him in 2008.

But a serious knee injury - and then subsequent injuries on the same knee - curtailed his early promise and Kerlon never lived up to the hype.

 The Brazilian performing his famous trick
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The Brazilian performing his famous trickCredit: AP:Associated Press

He went on loan to Ajax but only managed to break into the reserve side.

Four years at Inter brought no appearances and Kerlon became a nomad, playing in Japan, the US (at many levels below MLS), in Malta and then Brazil.

Kerlon has now returned to Europe - in the Slovakian top flight.

The 28-year-old has signed for Spartak Trnava, who currently sit fourth in the Super Liga.

The forward has signed a deal until the end of next season.

Kerlon told Brazilian publication Lance: "I’m happy, very happy. God gave me a good opportunity to restart my football career.

 Kerlon was once tipped as the next Ronaldinho
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Kerlon was once tipped as the next RonaldinhoCredit: AP:Associated Press

"Football is my life, and I love it. It is true that injuries have hindered my career, but now I am happy.

"I’m fine and thanks to Spartak for the chance. I have everything I need here, excellent conditions and people in the club."

Kerlon has continued to perform the seal dribble wherever he plays.

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