New Eusebio will be back in October
Mantorras Aims For October Return
Latest News | News Archive
Mantorras has huge potential
09/10/2003. Benfica's Angolan striker Pedro Mantorras is set to return to full training in October.
Despite the doubts many have critics have over his speedy recovery, Mantorras has stated his intent to return in the fall.
"The knee feels better, I'm working out real hard and by October I should be back with Benfica. What others say does not bother me, I feel great and I will reflect this on the pitch," he told the Portuguese media.
The explosive striker was badly missed by Benfica down the stretch of last season. His absence was citied by many as the sole reason for Benfica missing out on the Champions League.
"The New Eusebio" began turning heads in 2000/2001 with Alverca where he scored 9 goals and 26 Super League appearances. He immediately caught the attention of Juventus and Barcelona, but they were beaten to the player by Benfica due to the Lisbon side's affiliation with Alverca.
Mantorras made an immediate impact on Benfica netting 13 goals in 30 appearances while bringing fans to their feet with his dazzling dribbling displays. But a severe knee injury at the start of Benfica's 02/03 campaign forced Mantorras to miss out on the first half of the season. A rushed return only made matters worse as he re-injured his knee and placed his playing career in jeopardy. He made 8 appearances in 2002/2003 mostly off the bench and scored 3 goals. Mantorras opted for surgery to repair his severely damaged knee and many in Portugal have questioned whether or not he will ever be the same player again.
"Many people believed I would never play again. But I've always believed in myself and my abilities, and I will be back in October."
Daniel Fernandes
Search
|