Jorge Jesus looks ahead to visit to Paços de Ferreira

Jorge Jesus was in the Estádio José Alvalade press room this Friday, looking ahead at the weekend's trip to Paços de Ferreira.

"Paços de Ferreira are usually a very competitive side. It isn't easy to play in Estádio da Mata, particularly with how they play in defence. However, this is the kind of match that the season will throw at us and we have to be ready so we can come away with the three points", said the Sporting coach, before going on to fend off the inevitable questions about rumoured transfers: "I know what is being said and everything is normal. I will decide who plays and that is why Slimani will be included after coming back from suspension. This is nothing new for me to be honest and it is always the same thing, especially in August. Last year we had the same issues, because people are interested in our players. What matters most is that we defend ourselves properly. A lot of people would like to play here and normally when I mention a player they end up with Benfica or FC Porto. I think I am their best scout!"

Constant transfer speculation could of course influence performance out on the pitch, but Jesus played it cool and is ready to deal with the extra nerves: "If course I take that into consideration. This is nothing new for me or for the players. Those who have already been through this kind of period know how to deal with it. Transfer rumours reflect the quality of my technical staff, but it is up to the president to decide who goes where. My job is to get the best out of the players individually and collectively and success has its price after that."