6 June 2006, by Tom Kundert

Simao confident of making World Cup impact

“Scolari can count on me”

Simao’s excellent display against Luxembourg on Saturday, when he came on at the break and hit two goals in the 3-0 win, has only added to the Benfica captain’s confidence.

After another season replete with impressive displays for his club side, especially in Europe, Simao feels he is now ready to stake a claim for a regular start in Portugal’s team.

“I feel prepared. I’ve been improving my form and the training sessions have been very important,” said Simao, who missed two games towards the end of the season due to an ankle knock.

“I feel confident and it’s up to the coach to decide who plays. He can count on me.”

Meanwhile the 26-year-old insists that the constant speculation linking him with a move away from Lisbon will not affect his game.

“At the moment I’m a Portugal player. I’m happy to know that people are thinking about me. But as for whether or not I will stay, the only thing I can say is that I have a contract with Benfica.”