NEWCASTLE Jets marquee flop Mario Jardel scored a goal on his debut for Brazilian second division side Criciuma more than six months after he was dumped by the A-League side.
The 34-year-old former Brazil international, winner of the European Golden Boot in 1998-99 and 2001-02, admitted he was trying to recover from cocaine addiction three months ago.
But he helped his team beat Marilia 3-2 in the 16th round of the Campeonato Brasileiro Serie B with a 68th-minute goal.
In April, the former Porto, Sporting Lisbon and Bolton forward admitted bad influences and depression had led him to take cocaine.
"I started making mistakes when I was with inconvenient friends. Then, I divorced, immediately depression and, then, cocaine came along," he said at the time.
"I want to restart my life. I'm training. I'm not an example for any child. I tell people who are watching - please do not do what I did."
Criciuma lie 11th in the tournament on 22 points, 13 below leaders Corinthians.
But he helped his team beat Marilia 3-2 in the 16th round of the Campeonato Brasileiro Serie B with a 68th-minute goal.
In April, the former Porto, Sporting Lisbon and Bolton forward admitted bad influences and depression had led him to take cocaine.
"I started making mistakes when I was with inconvenient friends. Then, I divorced, immediately depression and, then, cocaine came along," he said at the time.
"I want to restart my life. I'm training. I'm not an example for any child. I tell people who are watching - please do not do what I did."
Criciuma lie 11th in the tournament on 22 points, 13 below leaders Corinthians.
Copyright (c) Press Association
Related Articles
Fresh talent flock to ambitious A-League outfit's pro pathway
Why A-League 20/21 is crucial for Olyroos’ medal hopes
