I've been humiliated - Rivaldo

The Brazilian World Cup winner was left on the bench in Sunday's 1-1 draw at Perugia by Milan boss Carlo Ancelotti.

The 31-year-old has had to endure plenty of time in the wilderness at the San Siro since his move from Barcelona last summer.

In an interview with the Brazilian daily Jornal da Tarde, Rivaldo admitted that he knew why he was being overlooked by Ancelotti and that he would reveal the truth at an appropriate time.

"It's not because I'm out of form or out of shape, you can be certain about that," he told the Sao Paulo-based daily.

"I know the real reason why I'm not playing and everybody else will also know at the right moment.

"Everyone here at Milan knows that my physical fitness is among the best in the squad, I always stand out in the tests. And that story about my not being well psychologically isn't true, either.

"I'm going through a humiliation.

"I know when I'm going to play because he (Ancelotti) says good morning. When he's not going to pick me, he doesn't talk to me for the whole week.

"I'm sad about the situation but I've got another two years of my contract to go and I intend to see it through.

"I've heard people say that if I leave, I'll go to Qatar. But you can take note - If I leave Milan, I'll continue in Europe for another three years or so.

The former Corinthians, Palmeiras and Deportivo La Coruna man intends to travel with the Samba Boys to the next World Cup finals, despite doubts that he will appear in Germany in 2006.

"I'm proud to have played 14 matches at the World Cup with the number ten shirt and to have scored eight goals," he added.

"The problem is that in Brazil, people forget very quickly about what I've done.

"I think it's ridiculous to carry out polls to see if I should carry on. (Midfielders) Kaka, Alex and Diego will probably go to the World Cup in 2006 in Germany.

"But I'm Rivaldo and I intend to go as well."