4 July 2006, by Tom Kundert

Miguel: “We are only thinking of winning”

Figo and Ronaldo fit to face French

Miguel yesterday matched his confident displays on the pitch throughout the World Cup with an equally assured performance in the press conference in the build-up to Portugal’s World Cup semi-final against France on Wednesday.

“Without wanting to sound overconfident, I believe we will get past France because we have enough ability to do so.”

“The tiredness from these last two games has been enormous, but I can guarantee that we are prepared for the very complicated match that awaits us on Wednesday.”

“Portugal hasn’t got to this stage of the World Cup for a long long time, so the motivation we have helps us to overcome the tiredness. We are motivated by a thirst for victory and with all due respect to France we are only thinking of winning.”

One hundred percent focused

In individual terms Miguel’s highly impressive displays have not gone unnoticed. Speculation has linked AC Milan and Barcelona with a move for the former Benfica man, but Miguel said that for now he was thinking only of the World Cup.

“The only thing I know is through the press, but at this moment this is the least important matter.”

“We have to shut out what is happening around us and focus one hundred percent on the team to do the best we can for our country. Of course I’m happy to hear this news, but right now I’m only thinking of Portugal.”

Figo the revelation!

When asked who he thought had been the revelation of the tournament Miguel raised a laugh among the press by immediately answering “Figo!”

The speedy right-back explained that “for a player at 33 years of age to run like he has run, and play like he has played, for me is a revelation.”

The Portugal captain took part in a light training session yesterday alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, apart from the rest of the squad. Both players finished the match against England carrying knocks, but both are expected to be fully fit for the semi-final showdown against France.