Marquinhos excited for Neymar return

Paris Saint-Germain defender Marquinhos is excited to welcome Neymar back to the club, talking up the star's importance to the Ligue 1 champions.

Neymar, 26, has been sidelined since February after undergoing surgery on his right foot.

The Brazil international, who appears set to be fit for the World Cup, is returning to PSG after rehabilitating in his homeland.

Speaking after PSG's 2-2 draw at Amiens Friday, Marquinhos said he was thrilled to welcome Neymar back.

"We haven't had any contact. Before yes, but now, we will see tomorrow how he is. I really hope he's fine," he said.

"We need him here, we need him with the national team. We will see how it goes step by step.

"The most important thing is he needs to be happy to recover well and to be fine for the games in the near future. I am happy. He is a friend.

"He is an important team-mate in Paris. Neymar is still so important for us and, when he is here, it's really good."