29 June 2006, by Tom Kundert

Valente unafraid of yellow peril

Nuno Valente has said he is not afraid of receiving a yellow card in the World Cup quarter-final match against England, which would rule him out of the semi-final should Portugal progress.

The Everton left-back has played in every match so far in Germany, and was one of the 16 players shown the yellow card in the stormy encounter against Holland.

“I’m going to play my own game. We walk onto the pitch thinking of giving our best. If I have to receive a yellow card for the good of the team, I’ll do so no problem.”

Beckham danger

Valente acknowledged the danger posed by David Beckham, who he is likely to come face to face with on the right side of England’s midfield.

“Beckham is a dangerous player, especially when crossing and at dead-ball situations. I’m going to try to prevent him from making those dangerous crosses, not only me but all of us. We’re going to be watchful of this.”