BEIJING - Former Brazil international Oscar has brought significant changes to Shanghai Port following his return to the team earlier this month, said head coach Ivan Leko.

Former Brazil international Oscar joined up with the Shanghai side on July 1 after serving out his mandatory quarantine and has since helped them win two Chinese Super League matches in a row

The midfielder joined up with the Shanghai side on July 1 after serving out his mandatory quarantine and has since helped them win two Chinese Super League matches in a row.

Oscar scored a crucial penalty in Shanghai's 1-0 win over Guangzhou FC last Friday after providing an assist in last Monday's 2-1 defeat of Hebei FC.

"He made a big difference to my side. He is the best player on the team, and his return is a great reinforcement," Leko said at Sunday's pre-match press conference.

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"Though he trained with the team for a limited time, he demonstrated respectable attitude and desire to help the team," Leko added.

Shanghai Port faces league leader Wuhan Three Towns on Monday. Without Oscar, they lost to the newly-promoted team 2-1 in their first encounter this season.

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Leko did not confirm or deny rumors which claimed that Oscar would return to Brazil after Monday's game to deal with personal issues.

"As a foreigner, I cannot read Chinese reports. For the time being, Oscar is still with us preparing for the next game. I also asked him to be prepared for this game," he said.

"We have no idea of other things," he added.