Portimonense travel north this Friday, following a two-week break from competitive matches, to face FC Porto at the Estádio do Dragão for their 8.30pm Portuguese FA Cup fourth round tie.
Manager Vítor Oliveira will be hoping to improve upon his side’s performance during a previous league encounter at the same venue two months ago when the Algarveans were comprehensively beaten 5-2 by the current championship leaders.
Worryingly, the squad picked up a couple of further injuries to key players during a goalless training session behind closed doors with the Cape Verde national team last Saturday, and both Paulinho and Ewerton are doubtful starters.
The creative midfield duo join still-recovering Ricardo Pessoa, Ryuki and Chidera on the sick list, while Lumor is on his way back from international duty with Ghana in Egypt. There is better news concerning Jadson, Marcel, Inácio, Lucas and Fabrício who should all return to be available for selection.
Following this weekend’s outing, Portimonense return to league action next Saturday, November 25 when Tondela will be the visitors to the municipal stadium.
By SKIP BANDELE
