Rio de Janeiro, Jan 27 (IANS): Fluminense coach Renato Gaucho singled out Dario Conca for praise after the Argentine playmaker scored a goal and set up another in his team's 3-1 victory over Volta Redonda.

The strike Sunday was Conca's first since his return to the Rio de Janeiro outfit last month after two years with Chinese side Guangzhou Evergrande reports Xinhua.

"Conca played very well. Everybody knows about his quality," Renato said.

"He is showing that there is no substitute for class. It was important for him to play well, not only scoring a great goal but by being influential throughout the entire match.

"He is an intelligent player with great quality. If he plays to the best of his ability he's going to be very important for us this year."

Sunday's Rio state championship fixture also marked the return of Brazil striker Fred for Fluminense after a serious hamstring injury.

"The pre-season was short and I have to build up fitness by playing matches," Fred said. "We are taking it slowly and I'm hoping to improve with each match."