RIO DE JANEIRO, March 19 (Xinhua) -- During Flamengo's team practice on Saturday, groups of fans circled the facility in protest against the club's stance regarding polemic striker Adriano.

Adriano was recently released from Italy's AS Roma. An initial reaction by Flamengo's fan was excitement, awaiting his return.

However, head coach Vanderlei Luxemburgo quickly reacted to the news claiming that Adriano is not part of his team's plans in 2011.

Revolted with the news, fans protested Luxemburgo's response and pleaded with the Flamengo directory to welcome his back to the club. Fans are demanding a quick resolution regarding Adriano's status with the club.

While with Flamengo during the latter half of 2009, Adriano helped his team to win the Brazilian Championship before returning to Roma.

However, he quickly fell out of the grace of Roma after missing several practices and returning to the club later than expected after a vacation in Brazil to recover from a shoulder injury.

Refuting Luxemburgo's stance, fans claim that Adriano's return to the club will only benefit the team and its profits.

Teams throughout Brazil, including Santos and Palmeiras, have yet to make a definitive step in claiming the striker. Regardless of his affiliation, he is only expected to return to physical activity in April.