12 July 2007

Areias signs for Belenenses

Defender looking forward to Uefa Cup action

Belenenses have signed former FC Porto left-back, Areias, with the player arriving on a free transfer after rescinding his contract with the Portuguese champions. He has signed on for one year plus an option for another.

The 30-year-old has spent the last two seasons playing largely forgettable spells at Belgian club, Standard Liege, and Spanish side, Celta Vigo, on loan.

The fact that the Blues will participate in the Uefa Cup this coming season was a determining factor in swaying the player’s decision to make the move to the Restelo.

“It’s logical that this factor was important. Fortunately, I have played in European competitions with FC Porto and with Standard Liege. It’s obvious that it is an incentive for a footballer to play in the middle of the week in a European competition,” said Areias.

“I had offers from Portugal and from abroad, but I chose Belenenses because I felt the club really wanted me.”