Portugal goalkeeper Ricardo said he was not concerned about the criticism he has received in the past season which has led to doubts whether he will retain the number one spot for Euro 2008.
The 32-year-old Sevilla guardian – capped 74 times and who played in the Euro 2004 final – is in competition with Quim for the starting position but he shrugged off the doubts surrounding his form.
“There are two goals involved: one for me and one for Quim,” said Ricardo replying to a journalist’s question if he thought he deserved his place in the team.
In training during the week, though, Ricardo has more often than not been playing with the reserve side while his 31-year-old rival – capped 25 times – has been in the first team.
“At Sevilla, I missed four matches because of injury and six which were the decision of the coach,” said Ricardo, who moved to Spain from Sporting Lisbon last summer.
“It is a little disappointing but it still remains an enriching experience.
“What I am experiencing with all the criticism is not hard to live through.
“There are lots of good things to live for,” added Ricardo, who has always been coach Luiz Felipe Scolari’s first choice since he took over in 2002.
Looks like Ricardo's place is safe after all - Quim has broken his wrist during training according to the BBC.
James: Looks like Ricardo's place is safe after all - Quim has broken his wrist during training according to the BBC.
Yes Quim is the latest GK casulty at Euro 2008.
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