Adriano is hoping his Brazil teammates can help him rediscover his best form.

The striker has endured a tough season with Internazionale and believes the atmosphere at the Serie A club has contributed to his struggles. Having returned to Rio de Janeiro to begin his preparations for the World Cup, Adriano is looking forward to seeing some friendly faces.

"I have had difficult moments in Italy this year," he said. "I want to be with my family to help me recover and do a good job at the World Cup."

The 24-year-old added that he has not been happy in Milan this season, where his future has been the subject of much speculation.

"It is difficult to work in a team where there is not peace," he said. "I am not happy. I need joy and smiles to play, like there are in the Brazil team. I need my Brazil team-mates."

Inter's board have allowed Adriano to return to Brazil despite the fact that it means he will miss Sunday's game at Cagliari. Adriano likened his situation to the one experienced by his international strike partner Ronaldo, who has had a troubled season with Real Madrid.

"I am unhappy, and Ronaldo is like me," he said. "He is not in his best form at Real Madrid. We want to recover to play at our best in the World Cup."

Adriano's comments come only two days after Inter captain Javier Zanetti gave his striker a vote of confidence, telling Argentinian television: "Adriano is like all Brazilians. They are excellent players, but if they are not happy, they are depressed and they do not play well. But he is a good boy."

As for his future at Inter, Adriano is putting that question on hold.

"I will think about next season after Germany," he said.

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