Elias sits down for an interview with O Jogo

Elias spoke in an extensive interview with the newspaper O Jogo this week. Reflecting on his return to the Portuguese capital, the Brazilian proved surprised with the progress visible in Alvalade. "Everyone who works at the club wants to win", said the 31-year old, going on to comment on his battle with Adrien for a place in the team: "He is a player that I really respect and he is a fundamental part of the team both on and off the pitch. I hope to stays with us for a long time."

Jorge Jesus was inevitably the target of a question or two, seeing Elias answer: "He is really different. He is the best coach out there right now. I have had some really good coaches, like Tite with Brazil and now Jesus is the best in my opinion. It is an honour to work with him."

In relation to president Bruno de Carvalho, Elias expressed his admiration: "He is working really hard for the club and for the players and we really appreciate him for that. It loves this club and wants to see us at the top. That kind of person is good for football."

Serbian national coach happy to see Marković back in training

Lazar Marković had been in Lisbon for lass than 24 hours, but he already has his boots on and was on the training pitch for Wednesday's afternoon session in Alcochete.

Speaking in an interview with the newspaper O Jogo, the Serbian national coach, Slavoljub Muslin, also proved pleased with Marković's return to the Portuguese capital: "It is good for him to go back to a country where he was happy and where he showed hsi quality. It is also important for him to be with a coach that knows him and that makes him a better player. I think Jorge Jesus will turn him into a real weapon for Sporting.”