7 October 2005, by Tom Kundert

Tiago loving life at Lyon

Tiago Mendes has spoken of his remarkably smooth transition into the Lyon set-up following his summer move from Chelsea.

Tiago has been a virtual ever-present in a Lyon side aiming to claim a fifth consecutive French title and go far in the Champions League. Gerard Houllier’s team have made a spectacular start to the season, winning ten and drawing two of their twelve matches.

“It was easy to make the adaptation,” he said. “French football suits my strengths.”

Fantastic Chelsea memories

Tiago believes he has more room to express himself at the all-conquering French champions. “I have greater freedom, because the football is different. My role at Chelsea was different. Now I’ll be able to score more goals.”

“I love scoring, but what’s important is that at the end of the year you can say you’ve had a good season. Last year at Chelsea was fantastic. I just hope that everything goes well for me again.”

Tiago is likely to start in Portugal’s match against Liechtenstein on Saturday, with fellow midfielders Deco and Costinha ruled out through suspension and injury.

But the former Braga and Benfica midfielder does not believe that he will have more chance to play now that he is a regular starter for his club.

“When I was at Chelsea I was selected and played a lot of games. I don’t know if I have more chance of playing now. It’s Scolari who decides. All I know is that I’m ready to play. When we feel good at our club we feel good in the national team.”