Rúben Amorim speaks before the game against Moreirense FC

After the two-week international break, Sporting Clube de Portugal returns to Liga NOS action this Monday. They face Moreirense FC in Moreira de Cónegos, and Rúben Amorim is not predicting an easy game - as he explained in his pre-match press conference.

"They will be a bold side. Their coach [Vasco Seabra] likes to play good football; he has players who have been at big clubs in his squad and that helps when facing these games. The game against them at the Estádio José Alvalade saw them create some problems for us, but we were clearly the better side. Moreirense FC are doing very well, but we are also in good form", he told journalists.

Amorim stated that the aim for matchday 25 is "to continue to improve and win the game". "I hope it will be a great game, but even if it isn't, I hope that Sporting CP win", he added.

Os Leões were held to a draw the last time they visited Moreira de Cónegos in Liga NOS, last season, and it began a dip in results. However, their coach played down any effect this might have on his team.

"They are different seasons. Last season, Sporting CP failed to get points against the big sides, whilst this year it's the other way around: we haven't lost yet. We have to look at things both ways. We are more prepared and have a more balanced squad; there is no comparison whatsoever and there is no fear at all."

Sporting CP's position at the top of the Liga NOS table has inevitably attracted interest in their players from other European clubs, but Amorim doesn't fear heads being turned.

"This interest is to the players' credit. I am happy for them, but Sporting CP players are already playing for a big club. There are still many games to be played, and everything can change from one moment to the next. Sporting CP players are aware that what happens today could be different tomorrow. The success of the group makes these players grow, and when a team are doing well all the players must be valued."

Asked about Nuno Mendes in particular, he commented: "Nuno Mendes is not prepared to leave either this year, nor the next, nor the year after that. Maybe five years from now he will be ready to leave Sporting CP (laughing)."

"We want to keep the best players, but the market is a law unto itself. We know that we have to sell, but we are only thinking about getting the win against Moreirense FC. Nuno has a buyout clause and is happy here, so there is no concern. We are calm about that."