Naval snap up Brazilian pair

Full-backs Tiago Silva and Daniel Cruz pen 3-year contracts

After signing goalkeeper Jorge Baptista, Naval have added two more recruits, contracting defenders Tiago Silva and Daniel Cruz.

The full-backs, who joined from Chapecoense and Parana respectively, will represent the club for the next three years. The two 25-year-old Brazilians were unveiled by the club yesterday and showed great enthusiasm with their moves.

“I’m focused on doing my job, respecting my colleagues and searching for my objective, which is to play seriously and have a great season,” stated right-back Tiago Silva. “All players dream about playing in Europe and Portugal is an optimal alternative. I am very happy!”

As for Cruz, this will be his second stint playing in Europe as the left-back represented Polish outfits Legia Warsaw and Pogon. Although happy to be back playing in Europe, Cruz is looking at his time with Naval as a platform to re-launch his career.

“I expect to win here. There are various other Brazilians here and I have all their support. I expect to have a fine season. I have this opportunity and I expect to give my best so that other big clubs take notice of me.”

The two players are seen as direct replacements for Mario Sergio and China, who look to be leaving the club. Mario Sergio has decided not to renew his contract with the Figueira da Foz team, while China looks set to make a move to Belenenses.