Football: Portugal coach felled by player
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Glenn Hoddle may think he has problems as he prepares for Saturday's international against Mexico - but at least the England coach has not had to suffer the indignity of his Portuguese counterpart, who was felled yesterday by a player angered by his exclusion from the national squad.
Artur Jorge was knocked to the ground by the Sporting Lisbon striker Ricardo Sa Pinto. Witnesses said that Sa Pinto turned up at the Sporting training ground, where the national team was preparing for Saturday's World Cup qualifier in Northern Ireland, and demanded to speak to the coach.
Carlos Moia, a director of Benfica, who was present at the ground, said that Sa Pinto then struck Jorge, knocking him down. Jorge, who appeared unhurt in the attack, said later that the incident would have no effect on the preparation of the team. The exclusion of the volatile Sa Pinto was one of the surprises in the 20-man squad named by Jorge for the game.
No reason was given for the decision to drop the striker, who has 21 caps for Portugal, but press reports have spoken of disciplinary problems. A Portuguese federation member said he would be pressing for an immediate ban to be imposed on Sa Pinto.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments