Fernando Santos has announced the Portugal squad for the final two Euro 2016 qualifiers against Denmark (home) and Serbia (away).
Benfica right-back Nélson Semedo is called into the squad for the first time, and Belenenses goalkeeper Ventura has been selected in place of the injured Beto.
In relation to the previous squad, Tiago is recalled after serving his suspension, and Fábio Coentrão and João Moutinho are back after injury, but William Carvalho has not been recalled despite making his comeback from injury for Sporting with two appearances in the last week.
Braga's Rafa Silva is rewarded for his fine form with a recall into the senior squad.
The major news however is the debut given to Semedo, who was thrown into the Benfica first team by new coach Rui Vitória since day one of the new season and has responded magnificently, nailing down the right-back spot for the Eagles. Semedo, an adapted winger, has impressed both in lending his support to attack, as well as his ever-improving defending.
"Nélson Semedo can take advantage of the fact Vieirinha is not available," said Santos. "The way Nélson has progressed is very very positive. We have observed him a lot and he can respond to what I want."
Another possible explanation for Semedo's inclusion in the squad is the fact Cape Verde are known to be keen to cap the player who has dual nationality. However, Santos refuted the idea, saying Semedo has earned the call-up owing to the quality of his play alone.
Portugal host Denmark in Braga on 8 October, before travelling to Belgrade to play Serbia three days later. The Seleção require one point to guarantee their spot at next summer's tournament.
Full Portugal squad:
Goalkeepers: Anthony Lopes (Lyon), Rui Patrício (Sporting), Ventura (Belenenses)
Defenders: Bruno Alves (Fenerbahçe), Cédric (Southampton), José Fonte (Southampton), Eliseu (Benfica), Nélson Semedo (Benfica), Fábio Coentrão (Monaco), Ricardo Carvalho (Monaco), Neto (Zenit)
Midfielders: André André (FC Porto), Danilo (FC Porto) Bernardo Silva (Monaco), João Moutinho (Monaco), João Mário (Sporting), Miguel Veloso (Dynamo Kiev), Rafa Silva (Braga), Tiago (Atletico Madrid)
Forwards: Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid), Danny (Zenit), Éder (Swansea), Nani (Fenerbahçe), Ricardo Quaresma (Besikstas)
by Tom Kundert
