Portimonense coach Paulo Sérgio has confirmed that injury-plagued veteran striker Jackson Martinez – 54 games, 12 goals – does not feature in his plans for the coming season, leaving the club in desperate need of a proven frontman.
Ex-Aves winger Welinton Junior has been the only confirmed first team addition this summer, although on-loan attacking midfielder José Aldo could make the step up from the U-23 side along with keeper Aflalo (also ex-Aves) who could take Japan-bound Gonda’s place between the sticks.
Another recent arrival seemingly destined for immediate senior action rather than reserve team football is 20-year-old 6’4” central defender Jonathan Monteiro, signed from Brazilian club Cruzeiro this week.
Meanwhile, Portimonense have returned to training with the top division in their sights despite the league judicial committee declaring itself not competent to make a decision on Setúbal’s appeal against demotion – the case has been referred to the Sports Arbitration Tribunal (TAD).
By SKIP BANDELE
