Training injury rules out Niculae

Romania striker Marius Niculae will miss both legs of Sporting Clube de Portugal's UEFA Cup first-round match against SK Rapid Wien after injuring his left foot in training today.

Final session
The 24-year-old picked up the injury in Sporting's final full session before tomorrow's fixture at the Estádio José Alvalade, the venue for this season's UEFA Cup final.

Beto also out
Having recovered from a recent injury, Niculae was expected to be among the substitutes tomorrow, with Mauricio Pinilla and Liedson likely to lead the line. Central defender Beto will also miss out after failing to overcome a knee injury.