31 July 2007, by Sean Gillen

Compatriots welcome Simao to Atletico

Maniche: “Simao is a star – we’re happy he’s joined”

Atletico Madrid midfielders Maniche and Costinha have welcomed the arrival of Simao Sabrosa at the Vicente Calderon. Meanwhile, Costinha is expected to face disciplinary action from the club after a training ground incident.

Simao’s 20m Euro move to Los Rojiblancos was finalised over the weekend, with the former Benfica winger’s arrival increasing the Portuguese contingent at the club to four. As well as Costinha and Maniche, defender Ze Castro is also in the Spanish capital.

“There is not much you can say about Simao, he is a star,” said Maniche when asked about Simao’s switch to La Liga. “We hope to be able to count on him as soon as possible. Either Simao or Quaresma could have come here and we are very happy that one of them has joined.”

When asked about the significance of the increasing contingent of Portuguese players plying their trade both at Atletico and in Spain, the former Porto man replied: “It shows Portuguese football is evolving more and more, the players have a lot of quality and are coveted.”

Costinha also reacted positively to Simao’s arrival, saying that his countryman can help Atletico finish in the top four next season, in order to qualify for the Champions League.

“Simao is a great player and I hope he will help us reach Atletico’s objectives, which is to secure a place in the Champions League. It will be difficult to fight for the title, as Real Madrid and Barcelona have the advantage,” affirmed Costinha.

Costinha in hot water

Costinha, however, may not begin the new season with the club, after a shocking training ground fight with a younger team-mate strengthened rumours that Atletico are looking to sell the 32-year-old in the near future.

The incident occurred following a poorly-timed challenge by Costinha on youngster Jacobo Ynclan during Sunday’s training session. According to Spanish paper AS, when Jacobo asked for an explanation, Costinha punched his colleague and a fight ensued.

Costinha then had a confrontation with the watching fans, which has made his standing at the club appear all the more unstable.

Many believe that the root of the Portuguese’s frustration is the knowledge that he does not figure in manager Javier Aguirre’s plans, made all the worse by the lack of serious interest in him from other clubs.