As Brazil look for to maintain their strong push to qualify for the 2018 World Cup, Gilberto Silva is placing the emphasis on Gabriel Jesus in partnering Neymar up front.
Currently top of the CONMEBOL standings after 12 rounds of matches, the Verde-Amarela take on Uruguay and Paraguay in this month's qualifiers.
"At the moment, Brazil suffer from a dependence on Neymar, but that may change with Jesus," the ex-Arsenal man told Sport360. "He can help Neymar and lift a bit of the responsibility of his shoulders.
"But it's not only about Neymar and Jesus. The other players need to take their responsibility to deliver what is expected of them.
"The experience they have now is very different from the 2014 World Cup. The World Cup qualifiers in South America are a big test and help you mature.
"That's the level of difficulty you'd face at a Confederations Cup or a World Cup, but, in 2014, Brazil didn't have the experience of the qualifiers.
"That was an important part that Brazil had missed out on at the time. You go to Venezuela, Ecuador and Bolivia and those games are very helpful. This time around they will be more experienced in terms of the big games and the circumstances. Brazil will be much better."
Jesus' early success at Manchester City may have been stunted by injury, but Gilberto is happy that he's already been able to make an impact.
"It is great to see a Brazilian player with his ability adapting so quickly to the Premier league," said Silva.
"Moving to England was a big step for Jesus. He has not only shown his ability, but also his maturity.
"He is a natural player, the way he does things. He plays in a simple way. He is young and he still has a lot to learn in terms of tactics and team play.
"Jesus can also improve his game individually. The Premier League will be a great school. He should absorb everything he can. He has to absorb the maximum to produce his very best."
