2 November 2007, by Joao Pedro

Liedson nears 100-goal milestone

Sporting striker two strikes away from magic number

The two goals scored by Liedson in Sporting’s victory over Fatima on Wednesday edged the quicksilver Brazilian striker to within touching distance of 100 goals in a Sporting shirt.

Since making his debut in 2003, the Levezinho (Light One) as he is known in Portugal, has racked up 98 goals in a Sporting shirt.

The pacey player will be looking to reach the 'goalden' ton in Sporting’s home match against Naval on Sunday.

He has twice been crowned top scorer in the Portuguese top flight, and scored the winning goal in Sporting’s Portuguese Cup triumph last season.

Brazil call-up

Currently in his fifth season at the Lisbon club, his consistent scoring has even led to recent speculation in the Brazilian press that the 29-year-old could be selected for the national team, which is suffering a rare dearth of options for the front positions.

Suggestions of a call-up to the five-time World Champions have been further fuelled by Liedson’s superb form over recent months. The goal-getter has hit the back of the net 26 times in his last 38 matches.

Among marksman currently playing in Portugal, only Nuno Gomes and Joao Vieira Pinto have scored more goals than the Brazilian.