21 February 2017
Digging deep at the Dragao
“We go into tomorrow’s match in very good form as is evident from the results gained and performances that we’ve been putting in of late.
“We’re aware of how important this match is and the strength of our opponents because Porto are a side that, in recent years, have always met their objectives in the Champions League, whether that’s been to reach the last 16 or quarter-finals.
“They’ve plenty of experience in Europe and for that we respect them. We know that we’ll need to dig deep to earn our qualification to the next round, as they won’t be letting up one inch.”
A reunion with Casillas
“I’m delighted to be meeting Iker (Casillas) again. He’s a friend and an opponent that I’ve always held in tremendous esteem and I continue to do so, especially when you consider that he had to make a strong decision to leave Real Madrid and get his career back on track with Porto. I’ve seen him in action recently and he seems to be in top form and I hope for his sake that he’ll play two great games against us.”
André Silva and the attack
“André Silva will certainly pose a great threat. I know a lot about him and I hope he can realise his dreams in the game, but obviously not at our expense in this Champions League tie.
“I need to be right on top of my game in order to keep a clean sheet because Porto are a side that can make opposition keepers despair at times. Altogether as a team we need to put in a top defensive display tomorrow night.”
Champions League no ordinary affair
“For each and every footballer, playing in the Champions League is a very different experience to the league or domestic cups, which is normal because it’s the most difficult competition of the lot and one in which you want to impress the most.
“Obviously, having the opportunity to lift the trophy at the end is the most important thing. I’ve had the fortune that, over the years, the club has assembled a squad capable of going all the way.”
