The coach looks ahead to Friday's curtain raiser

In a Thursday press conference, Sporting CP coach Rúben Amorim previewed the season opener for his side against FC Vizela, which gets the Liga Portugal BWIN campaign underway this Friday at 8:15pm local time.

Keeping true to the ideas implemented last season, the coach said that his side will need to have their wits about them with the newly promoted team who visit the Estádio José Alvalade.

“They are a team that our coaching staff know well from CNS, just like we know about their coach. He said he told the players to just enjoy the game, but I know him well and I know that he comes here to win. Therefore, if we are not careful, we could drop points and even lose the game," warned Amorim, adding: “It will be a difficult match, between a team who have nothing to lose and another who have to win at home."

Fullbacks Pedro Porro and Nuno Mendes will be unavailable for the encounter, he confirmed, before underlining the difficulty that lies ahead.

"Every game is dangerous and we proved last year that anything is possible. We have to run more than FC Vizela, because if we run more than them, then we are stronger and closer to victory."

Believing that Sporting CP will make a strong start to 2021/22 League, Amorim also spoke of the support of the fans, saying that the team are "prepared" to receive criticism, but reminded journalists that the fans got behind the players when they went behind in the Supertaça.

“It is part of the game. The players have to grow, we are Sporting CP and we have to face things in the best way," he acknowledged, before fielding a question about the transfer market.

“I am very satisfied with the squad I have at my disposal. We have to improve several things, because not everything was perfect in the Supertaça, and there are players who will get fitter. We have the group prepared, but we can and must improve in all aspects. This season we're going to try to be more domineering.”

Asked about his own impact since joining Sporting CP last summer, the coach dismissed any effusive praise.

"I don't feel like a talisman at all. I have great players, a great technical team and I know I have some luck too."

Sporting CP face FC Vizela on Friday night.