Sporting suffer Hugo loss
Monday, November 24, 2003
Article summary
Sporting Clube de Portugal centre-back Hugo will miss the rest of the season with an achilles injury.
Article body
'Very serious injury'
The 27-year-old defender sustained the injury in Sporting's win against third division side 1º de Dezembro in the fourth round of the Portuguese Cup. Under no pressure, Hugo controlled the ball in the 23rd minute but then collapsed in agony. "It's a very serious injury as it will mean he will be out of action for the rest of the season," said Sporting physiotherapist Dr Gomes Pereira.
'Confidence and admiration'
Coach Fernando Santos admitted the loss of Hugo would be keenly felt. "Hugo won the confidence and admiration of the supporters with hard work and talent," said Santos. "Even when he had to sit on the bench, Hugo always kept his morale high and supported his team mates. He's a great professional and I just hope Sporting can win something to dedicate him at the end of the season."
All to play for
Sporting face Turkish Super League side Gençlerbirligi SK at home on 27 November, with the UEFA Cup second-round tie finely poised at 1-1 after the first leg.
