PSG's Neymar celebrates after scoring his side's second goal during the French League One soccer match between Lille and PSG at the Lille Metropole stadium, in Villeneuve d'Ascq, northern France, Jan 26, 2020. (MICHEL SPINGLER / AP)

RIO DE JANEIRO - Paris Saint-Germain forward Neymar has returned to Brazil's squad for the start of the South American zone 2022 World Cup qualifiers, head coach Tite said on Friday.

Neymar has not represented Brazil since October, having missed November friendlies against Argentina and South Korea with a thigh injury

As expected, the 28-year-old will form part of an attack that also includes Manchester City's Gabriel Jesus, Liverpool's Roberto Firmino and Flamengo pair Gabriel Barbosa and Bruno Henrique.

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But there was no place for Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo, while Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson was also absent because of a hip injury.

Five-time world champions Brazil will begin their quest for a Qatar 2022 berth by hosting Bolivia in Recife on March 27 before a clash with Peru in Lima four days later.

"It's the start of our path to the World Cup and there is a great responsibility," Tite told a news conference here. "We've been constantly monitoring (players) and made our decisions accordingly."

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Neymar has not represented Brazil since October, having missed November friendlies against Argentina and South Korea with a thigh injury.

The former Barcelona star is currently the third highest scorer in Brazil's history, having netted 61 times in 99 games. He is just one goal behind two-time World Cup-winner Ronaldo and 16 shy of record holder and three-time world champion Pele.