When Robinho is playing for Brazil, he is something else. A different spice all together. Not only is he productive and has an eye for goal, he is actually entertaining. His problem is that he can't be the center of attention or the responsibility bearer, if Neymar and Ganso can handle the pressure of that, Robinho will shiiiiiiineeee...
he's not a LMF, or a fullback, he's a lateral.
most all Brazilian FB's were laterals. it's just some adjust their game more to that of a traditional "fullback" to better make it in Europe. but the best ones don't; Dani Alves, Maicon, Bobby Charles, Cafu, Serginho, Marcelo, Andre Santos, Cicinho, etc. they can play in midfield but also in defence. the Da Silva's are in this mould as well.
I don't know what the fuck a lateral is but preach on...
If by play makers you mean, then yeah, that is whats I always understood it as. Typically an easy position to fullfil, a little discipline and good stamina and you are good to go as a fullback. Brazilians though make it one of the most difficult positions, between defending and play making a lot of skill is required.
For whoever said that this will limit Ramires and Lucas, then by all means let them be immobile and stationary. LOL! What are you getting out of these players that Dani and Marcelo are not worth it? The two are a bundle of energy, brimming with confidence and competitiveness, not to mention one is a very good passer and the other is an unexpected goal threat. I think it is time for Cafu and Roberto Carlos to go to bed rest assured, their heirs are there to carry the selecao.
A Christmas tree would be better Alves and Marcelo giving width with at least two from(Sandro-Ramires-Lucas) covering them and then Neymar and Ganso behind Pato
A diamond midfield is essentially a christmas tree. As long as the full backs wreck havoc and allowed the freedom to do so. They have enough swagger to do so, its just a matter of staying responsible against disciplined European sides and disciplined enough themselves to hold back Di Maria and Messi (which won't happen, so they will have to outscore them).