Rio de Janeiro, April 27 (IANS): Brazil World Cup winner Gilbert Silva has hailed the influence of Dunga in his second spell as coach of the national team.

The 'Selecao' have won eight consecutive matches since Dunga replaced Luiz Felipe Scolari after last year's World Cup. Gilberto, who played in Brazil's 2002 World Cup-winning team, said Dunga has mellowed since his first spell in-charge from 2006 to 2010, reports Xinhua.

"I believe this Dunga is more mature and less angry. He is a guy that has a big personality and I believe he'll help the Selecao a lot," Gilberto said on Sunday.

"He will demand the most from every player he calls up and demand commitment to the country and the shirt. Of that, I am sure. The Selecao is a reference point for Brazil and they are in good hands."

Gilberto, a member of Arsenal's 2003-04 'Invincibles', said Brazil should prioritise the 2018 World Cup ahead of this year's Copa America in Chile.

"We shouldn't think about being Copa America favourites. We have to think about being prepared for the next World Cup," Gilberto said.

"What is most important, disregarding the results, is that Brazil can display some good football because we'll have the World Cup qualifiers next and they'll be as difficult as Copa America."