Fulham midfielder João Palhinha may only have 19 caps for Portugal, but is expected to be one of the pillars in this new cycle at the national team, now managed by Roberto Martinez.
The 27-year-old is still working to convince the new boss he deserves a place in the line-up, and he passed an interesting test last night, as he had to prove himself in a different position.
Despite starting in midfield, Palhinha was moved to the defence in the second half of the 4-0 win over Liechtenstein, and the Fulham player spoke to the local media (via Mais Futebol) about it.
Asked about the change in positions, the 27-year-old made it clear that it isn’t his preference, but was happy to help the team.
“It’s not a position that I ‘m very used to, but I play where the coach says and that brings me good things,” said João Palhinha.
“Due to my characteristics, it is a position in which I can perfectly play.”
Portugal now prepare to face Luxemburg in the second round of the World Cup qualifiers on Sunday.
So by the start of the next week, Palhinha will be free to return to London, where Fulham start preparing for the Premier League clash against AFC Bournemouth which takes place on the 1st of April.
