21 November 2007, by Sean Gillen

Miguel hits out at Fernandes criticism

Valencia right-back defends team-mate and compatriot

Portuguese international Miguel has defended his Valencia team-mate Manuel Fernandes, claming that the press have been unfair in their criticism of the midfielder.

Fernandes is currently enduring a difficult time at the Mestalla following his big-money move from Benfica over the summer. Having struggled for form and fitness, the player’s personal life and professionalism has been called into question by the press.

“I don’t think Manuel has struggled to adapt, although he should be the one to talk about that,” said Miguel when asked about his compatriot.

“When he played against Mallorca, he did a great job and he was praised by everybody. But after the Rosenborg game – when we all played badly, which can happen to anyone – talk started about things not related to football.

“As his friend it has irked me a little that things relating to his private life were touched upon, because that has nothing to do with it. This annoyed me a little because we should be talking about football.”

As for Miguel’s impending return to full fitness, the right-back says he has a chance of making his comeback for Los Ches in Sunday’s match with Racing Santander, while also giving his first impressions of new manager Ronald Koeman.

“I’m feeling fine. I’m running without problems, but I have to train with the ball and see how things are. Whether I can play on Sunday depends on how training goes. Unfortunately, I got injured during the last match. I want to be ready as soon as possible to help my team-mates in the next match.

“We’ve trained some weeks with Koeman already and there’s a good feeling. We are training well and I hope we can carry on like this. Our aim is to be on top and, hopefully, we can win a title. We want to help him and I wish him the best.”