Roberto Martinez, the coach of the national team, this Sunday refused the opportunity to call someone (and he could do it) to replace Ronaldo (suspended due to the accumulation of yellow cards) before today’s game with Luxembourg. “It’s very difficult for a player to come from abroad and be able to help the team. We have 20 players. We don’t have space at the moment. An external name will not help here. Paulinho is on the doorstep of the Seleção, like Beto, Andre Silva or Thiago Thomas,” said the coach when the topic of Paulinho (Sporting) was discussed at the press conference for the opening of today’s game.
Beating Luxembourg is the only goal of the coach, who warns: “International games are not easy. If we don’t give it our all, if we aren’t as good as we can be, we can lose points with anyone. Focus and attitude are important to then show your talent. Knowing that Luxembourg has the confidence and quality needed to qualify. This is the first time they have had this opportunity, it is important that whoever faces them is in the best shape.”
The selector also highlighted Portugal’s performance heading into next year’s European Championships. In addition to five wins, the team scored 15 goals and conceded zero. “I like both numbers. I don’t like to separate them. The winning team must work hard and keep the goal to zero and then be able to score goals,” stressed the coach, who will use Gonçalo Ramos instead of CR7. “I fit into any system as long as I’m in it,” the PSG player said.
RONALDO HAD DINNER AND LEFT FOR PORTUGAL
Cristiano Ronaldo has been withdrawn from Portugal’s squad for today’s game due to a penalty for accumulating yellow cards. This Sunday, the 38-year-old captain had lunch with the team, after which he was fired. He traveled to Madrid, where he spent the night before heading to Saudi Arabia. Al Nasr’s next game is on Saturday against Al Raed.
Author: Filipe Antonio Ferreira
Source: CM Jornal
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