Array of recalls and new faces marks new era

Despite giving indications to the contrary in his first public statements upon becoming Portugal coach, Fernando Santos opted for an authentic revolution as he announced his first squad selection for the upcoming games against France and Denmark.

New blood has been injected in the shape of Cédric, Ivo Pinto, José Fonte, Adrien and João Mário.

Several veterans who were out of the picture under Bento have also been recalled: Ricardo Carvalho, Danny, Tiago Mendes and Ricardo Quaresma.

New Seleção coach Fernando Santos will announce his first squad selection on Friday. The veteran manager takes over a Portugal side that is not short on individual quality but one that has not played as a cohesive unit for some time.

Outgoing coach Paulo Bento did not leave the squad in the best circumstances after he was dismissed following the embarrassing 1-0 defeat to Albania. The Seleção is now expected to look very different under Santos.

Many players have aged and declined, while others have moved clubs and seen their quality dip as well. At the same time, there is a wealth of young talent waiting in the wings.

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".

The Portuguese Football Federation has announced that Fernando Santos has been appointed the new Seleção coach. The 59-year-old will be officially presented in a press conference in Lisbon on Wednesday.

Santos is one of a select group of managers who has coached Portugal's three major clubs, FC Porto, Benfica and Sporting, leading the Dragons to a championship triumph in 1998/99.