More Nuno Gomes news.
Rui Costa as a sporting director sometimes has been at odds with coach Quique. Each want their own way. An example was in the pre-season when Rui Costa insisted that Chalana (Portuguese coach, Benfica interim coach) in the coaching staff. Quique of course didn't want that. He wanted to bring his own team, it's only natural.
Today what seems another situation where both are at odds. Judging by the 26 minutes that Nuno Gomes play in February 2009 (excluding the last game) it was clear to anyone that Quique doesn't count on Nuno Gomes for the striker in the starting 11.
Rui Costa came out publicly now and said that 'he wants continuity because of what they give to Benfica and what they can still give to Benfica.' Rui Costa said this of Nuno Gomes and Luisão, the defender who is the captain when Nuno Gomes is not in the starting 11.
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The pressure is on now from inside the club, Rui Costa sporting director and respected Benfica player. I thought that was so good of Rui Costa. He's helping Nuno Gomes keep his place in the Portugal call up list at least for 2009. Rui Costa could have said, Nuno Gomes is a Benfica player and is not going anywhere. But no. He made the point of 'wanting continuity for 2009-2010'! I think Quique can feel Rui Costa breathing down his neck.
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Here's the cover of Record, March 2, 2009, where Rui Costa's statements were the headline. Keep in mind Record is known to be Benfica-biased.
English translation of headline:
Rui Costa plans the 2009-2010 season with Luisão and Nuno Gomes.
"I want their continuity because of what they give to Benfica and what they can still give to Benfica."
CAPTAINS WITH A FUTURE
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By the way see the little box on the bottom left, with a picture of Cristiano Ronaldo after they won the League Cup.
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