Fulham’s Joao Palhina starred in his first international start since November 2021 as Portugal powered past Liechtenstein last night – and the midfielder was delighted to demonstrate his versatility to new national team coach Roberto Martinez by filling in at centre back in the second half.
The 27 year-old told the press after Portugal’s 4-0 win that he was happy to add a new string to his bow.
“It’s not a position that I ‘m very used to, but I play where the coach says and that brings me good things. Due to my characteristics, it is a position in which I can perfectly play.”
The former Sporting midfielder, outstanding in Fulham’s engine room this season, will be hoping to hold onto his starting position when Portugal face Luxembourg on Sunday.
