Portugal squad for UEFA Nations League quarterfinal: Ronaldo to captain side, Dias makes comeback
Portugal squad for UEFA Nations League quarterfinal: Ronaldo to captain side, Dias makes comeback
Ruben Dias has returned to the Cristiano Ronaldo-led Portuguese squad for its upcoming Nations League quarterfinal against Denmark.
Manchester City defender Dias, 27, had been sidelined with a muscular injury picked up in Premier League action.
Sporting Lisbon’s teenage striker Geovany Quenda has also earned a callup for the first time.
“At 17, being in the national team shows his potential,” said coach Roberto Martinez, insisting the youngster’s age was “not a problem”.
“What matters is quality, commitment and work,” the Spaniard told a press conference.
The choice of those who are selected was “meticulous and professional”, according to Martinez.
“If I could call them all, I would because they deserve it, but it’s not possible,” he added, with Al-Hilal defender Joao Cancelo and Al-Nassr midfielder Otavio both injured.
Portugal plays Denmark on March 20 in Copenhagen and at home in Lisbon the following Sunday.
