Ricardo Quaresma... left Porto for Inter Milan
Wenger - Quaresma loss is big blow for Porto
- Bould and Banfield join first-team staff
- 'I know I have some big boots to fill’
- Vermaelen - I enjoy the responsibility here
- International Watch: Ryo makes Japan debut
- Pictures of the Season 2011/12 - Part Three
- Top 20 Most Liked
By Richard Clarke
While Porto may have the Hulk, they have lost a super-hero in Quaresma, according to Arsène Wenger.
The Portuguese champions arrive at Emirates Stadium this evening for the second game of Group G. In the build-up much has been made of Brazilian striker Givanildo Vieira de Souza, who supposedly resembles the cartoon character. His record of 37 goals in 44 appearances in the Japanese League certainly smacks of danger for the home side.
However, for Wenger, the sale of winger Quaresma to Inter could be more influential. The 25-year-old moved to Italy in the summer after 25 goals in 114 appearances plus numerous assists. The Portuguese international nearly dumped Arsenal out of the Champions League at the group stages in 2006 but his drive cannoned back off the post and the visitors went through with a 0-0 draw on Matchday Six.
Quaresma was by far the most dangerous player on the night so it was unsurprising that Wenger described his loss as “massive” when he spoke to Arsenal.com ahead of tonight’s tie.
He added: “When you go to Porto and he is on the team-sheet you know you will need some strong performances from your left-back or your right back.
“That is because he can go on both flanks. He was so creative with his crosses - outside, inside - that it is still a big loss for Porto.”
[Tuesday, September 30, 2008]
More Arsenal News
-
Thu, May 24, 2012
'I know I have some big boots to fill’ -
Thu, May 24, 2012
Banfield - New role is a dream come true -
Thu, May 24, 2012
Bould and Banfield join first-team staff -
Thu, May 24, 2012
Bould - This shows strength of youth set-up -
Thu, May 24, 2012
Pictures of the Season 2011/12 - Part Four -
Thu, May 24, 2012
Kitchee FC on the verge of historic treble -
Thu, May 24, 2012
Player of the Season - Last chance to vote! -
Thu, May 24, 2012
Season Review 2011/12 - FA Cup -
Wed, May 23, 2012
'Premier League is as good as it's ever been' -
Wed, May 23, 2012
International Watch: Ryo makes Japan debut
