RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil (Reuters) -- Vasco da Gama has imposed a media silence after striker Romario, chasing the 1,000th goal of his career, publicly criticized a teammate.

Coach Renato Portaluppi and his players left Tuesday's training session without giving interviews and a spokesman said they would not talk again until after Wednesday's match against Botafogo at the Maracana.

On Sunday, 41-year-old Romario hit back at suggestions from teammate Leandro Amaral that the attention surrounding his attempt to score his 1,000th goal was putting pressure on the team.

"Of course, responsibility is a problem for some players and if he (Leandro Amaral) says it's a problem, he should go and play for a smaller club," said Romario.

Vasco has lost its last three games and has changed its playing style in an attempt to create chances for the former Brazil striker.

Romario says his career total, which he admits includes goals from youth, testimonial and friendly games, stands at 999.

He has made it clear that he wants to reach the milestone at the Maracana stadium, his favorite venue, and has sat out Vasco's last two matches away from the arena.

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