Queiroz recalls Tiago for Brazil friendly

Cesar Peixoto and Rolando earn surprise selection

Portugal coach Carlos Queiroz has recalled Juventus midfielder Tiago for the friendly match against Brazil next week. He also gave surprise call-ups to Braga’s Cesar Peixoto and FC Porto centre-back Rolando.

In relation to the squad for the matches against Sweden and Albania last month, Nuno Gomes, Ricardo Quaresma, Carlos Martins, Tonel, Yannick Djalo and Daniel Fernandes have all been left out, while Simao returns after injury.

Former Benfica, Chelsea and Lyon star, Tiago, has been out of the international picture for almost two years following a torrid start to his career at Juventus.

However, despite constant rumours of an impending departure from the Italian giants, Tiago stuck it out and is now back in favour at the Serie A club.

“It’s a great pleasure to be back in the Portugal squad. Although I wasn’t part of the squad lately, to tell the truth I never felt I was outside this family which is the Seleccao,” said the 27-year-old.

“I’ve worked hard at my club, not only to earn my place in the Juventus team, but also to win the confidence of the national coach.”

The match is scheduled for next Wednesday in the Brazilian capital, Brasilia.

Full squad

Goalkeepers: Quim (Benfica), Eduardo (Braga)

Defenders: Cesar Peixoto (Braga), Miguel (Valencia), Pepe (Real Madrid), Fernando Meira (Galatasaray), Bruno Alves (FC Porto) Rolando (FC Porto), Bosingwa (Chelsea) Paulo Ferreira (Chelsea)

Midfielders: Tiago (Juventus), Maniche (Atletico Madrid), Simao (Atletico Madrid), Deco (Chelsea), Raul Meireles (FC Porto), Joao Moutinho (Sporting)

Forwards: Danny (Zenit St Petersburg), Cristiano Ronaldo (Manchester United), Nani (Manchester United), Hugo Almeida (Werder Bremen)