During the press conference to preview the game with Moreirense, Rúben Amorim was also asked individual questions, focused on players in particular, which the Sporting coach sought to relativize.
On the influence and importance of Pedro Gonçalves’ return, the coach of the Lions stated: «We have been winning, we already had it before he returned. I think the whole team has improved. A player does not make a team. The change was not just the entrance of the Pot [Pedro Gonçalves], who has a past as a midfielder, has already played as a forward, gives us a lot of solutions and was also important, for example, in dead balls, hitting corners. He’s a great quality player, but everyone improved and raised the level, Palhinha himself as we’ve already talked about. When players improve, the whole team improves.»
As for changes in the left wing, the coach closed the game and explained the changes he has been operating: «Rúben Vinagre has already gained confidence, played an excellent game with Belenenses, that question does not arise. We vary according to the opponent and managing according to the opponent. Our left-back was Nuno Mendes, a very complete player, defensive, offensive, tall and now what we do is divide a little bit of those characteristics among several players. In addition to Rúben Vinagre, Matheus Reis plays central and full-back and Nuno Santos plays there when we specifically want a winger there.”
With regard to the possibility of Feddal leaving the squad to represent the national team, Rúben Amorim was calm and had full confidence in the players he has: «January is very long. The goal is for Feddal to be here. I don’t usually talk about selection with players, but if you have to go to the national team, go. We have several options for that position, we have Inácio, Matheus Reis, Marsà, Esgaio can play anywhere in the rear, Neto can also play in that position and therefore, in that regard, we are safeguarded. The only thing we are thinking about is winning the next game, with Moreirense.»
About the signing of 17-year-old Abdul Issahaku, Rúben Amorim did not comment: “I don’t do player presentations. I basically give the same answer about Feddal. Our focus is to beat Moreirense.»
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