O Sporting CP is the first of the big three of Portuguese football to return to the competition after the break for national team commitments, receiving the CD Santa Clara in Alvalade, in a meeting that precedes a demanding week for the lions, also marked by European match against Arsenal, counting for the UEFA Champions League.
In the preview of the meeting, the Leo coach, Rui Borgesconfirmed that Geovany Quenda is not available yethighlighting that “is not yet ready. You need some more patience and wait a few days”, despite recognizing that the young man “He is an important player for our team” Giorgi Kochorashvili returns to the options, something that left the coach satisfied.
Regarding the opponent, Rui Borges warned of the good moment of the Azorean team: “Santa Clara has yet to lose in its last five games. It clearly demonstrates the improvements it has made. It is a well-organized team defensively, very strong on the counterattack, with fast players in attack.”, adding that it will be necessary “be at our best”.
The Leonine coach also addressed the physical situation of Pedro Gonçalves, after not being used by Roberto Martínez in the national team: “I hope you’re in good condition. Maybe deconditioned due to not having minutes, because I was physically well”, reinforcing that he believes in the midfielder’s motivation: “I’ve already spoken to him. I want you to be motivated and help the team”.
Without Luis Suárez, suspended, Rui Borges admits alternatives in attack: “There are alternatives. You can play the Pote, we have Rafael Nel… We’ll see what we can present tomorrow”, also revealing some limitations in the squad: “Hjulmand arrived sick, Gonçalo Inácio touched, Rui Silva touched, Pote unconditioned. Let’s understand what we can do”.
Despite FC Porto’s recent victory in Braga, the Leonine coach refused to draw comparisons in the fight for the title: “FC Porto is ahead, it has merit, but there are many games left and we are still fighting”.
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