Nicosia, Cyprus, Sept 2: Portugal coach Paulo Bento insisted Thursday he had no idea why defender Ricardo Carvalho stormed out of a training camp ahead of a Euro 2012 qualifier against Cyprus and announced his decision to quit international football.
After arriving in Cyprus, coach Bento said it remained unclear why Carvalho walked out from the camp in Portugal ahead of Friday's game.
“Carvalho joined training with us. It was only just before we actually left (for Cyprus) that we were notified he wasn't coming with us,” Bento said.
“We're still a team of 22 good players, even though he's not here,” Bento said. “There are many other good players in the squad available to help ... We'll have to move on and do our best.”
As for Carvalho, the Real Madrid star said in a statement he felt hurt at the way he had been treated but didn't explain what had happened.
“I feel in top form physically and mentally, as shown by my performance and club selection,” the 33-year-old former Porto and Chelsea player said in a statement to the Portuguese media.
“Having represented (Portugal) 75 times, I am deeply devoted to protecting the good name of the team. Never before have I felt so hurt disrespected,” he said. “I did not intend to end my (international) career this way, but I remain convinced that I have always honored my country.”
Portugal leads Group H in qualifying, above Norway and Denmark, but is looking to rebound from its previous encounter against Cyprus last September when it was held to a shock 4-4 draw at home.
“We've risen to the top position after being fourth—so that's positive,” Bento said. “Despite Carvalho leaving, we need to go out and win this game. The players are ready and they've shown it in training. AP
