17/08/2012
Vítor Pereira: “We are confident”
 This Friday, Vítor Pereira analysed the début in the Portuguese League scheduled for Sunday, in Barcelos. Begin with a win is the motto for the Dragons, who do not Forget the defeat during the last season, but are confident they can win.
Last week, you stated that it was important to win the Supercup; now that that is over, what do you think of the beginning of the league?
Victories and conquests improve the confidence of the team. It was a difficult, but deserved win; we are prepared for this next game, which will also be difficult, and we are confident. Last season’s match here is still very present in our memory; we failed in winning the league without defeats because we lost in Barcelos. At the time, I gave credit to Gil Vicente and I believe they will play in the same way, with close lines, aiming for the counter-attack and in set pieces. But everyone remembers how we lost, Gil did well, but there were other factors which I don’t want to mention.
How do you feel about the national squad game in the same week when the league is starting?
I regret that in the same week when the league is starting I have less about 16 players to train. It’s regretful, but that is the reality of the big clubs. When it has to happen again, it will. Today was the first day I had everyone, many are tired. That is not the ideal way to kick-off a league, but we are not trying to find excuses.
Are you prepared to loose Hulk, what do you think of his statements early this week?
I won’t be commenting on transfers, everyday there is news of players coming and going. We will wait to see what happens and I’ll comment if there is any confirmation. As for what players say, I will not comment on that either, mainly because I am not fully aware of what was said exactly. The responsibility for what the players say is their own, don’t ask me.
Is Hulk fit to start the match? And João Moutinho? Are the players fit?
Everyone is prepared to start the match on Sunday. All the international players are fit to play, the choice is up to me.
Isn’t the case of the Brazilian players somewhat different, as they didn’t have a pre-season?
Today was the first training I had with all my players and it’s impossible to assess their fitness in one day. Time is important, but all of them are used to our style of play, I believe everyone is ready for Sunday.
Who is the captain of FC Porto?
The captains will be chosen at the right timing, and the right timing is by the end of August.
For the Supercup, the captain was Lucho; will he be the captain?
You will have to wait and see.
Do you confirm Djalma is being loaned out?
Of that case, I can talk. Djalma was loaned out so he can have more opportunities to play. We thought it was in the best interest for him and the club, that he has more playing time.
Has Alvaro Pereira been reinstated?
He did specific work, at the gym, because he hadn’t played yet for us and played for the national team. He is still at the club and until that changes we are counting on him. |
