"Winning is the only thing that matters" - Fernando Santos

"Winning is the only thing that matters" - Fernando Santos

New Seleção coach presented

Fernando Santos was officially presented as the new coach of Portugal yesterday.

"I'm afraid of nothing. I'm only interested in winning, winning, winning. The rest is just talk," was among the experienced manager's opening gambits.

"This is something I've always dreamed of. It's a moment of great personal and professional joy. In the Seleção we have a country, a flag, an anthem behind us, and this adds something special," said Santos, who also revealed he had received a message from his predecessor as Portugal coach Paulo Bento wishing him "all the luck in the world".

One of the major issues surrounding the new appointment is the 8-game FIFA suspension hanging over Santos, received for protesting against the referee when Greece manager at this summer's World Cup in Brazil.

"Let's see what happens in relation to the ban. We have weapons to overcome this. I don't believe I'll be suspended for so many games. Of course, it won't the same as if I was in the dugout, but I have full confidence in my assistant Ilídio Vale."

Santos also said he would be completely open-minded in relation to the players he selects, whereby their age - "they can be 17 or 35" - or their previous history with the Seleção, namely a series of players who fell out with Paulo Bento, will have no bearing. "I have no indication of players who cannot be selected. I will look at all Portuguese players in the domestic league and abroad when making my choice."

Tellingly, Santos appeared to set down a less hard-line attitude than his predecessor when it comes to possible personality clashes. "We don't have to all be friends, but we all have to be at the service of the country."

Santos said he had not yet had the opportunity to speak to Cristiano Ronaldo, but confirmed the Real Madrid superstar would remain Portugal captain.

by Tom Kundert