Queiroz focused on Portugal

World Cup challenge excites new coach

Last updated: 16th July 2008

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Queiroz: World Cup mission

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Carlos Queiroz has spoken of his excitement at being given the opportunity to lead Portugal into their World Cup qualifiers.

The former Manchester United assistant manager was presented to the Portuguese media on Wednesday, for the first time since being confirmed as Luiz Felipe Scolari's successor.

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson was loath to lose Queiroz, an astute tactician who the Scot credits with having played a substantial part in the club's recent successes.

It is, though, international rather than domestic affairs which now occupy Queiroz's thoughts and he is keen to get his reign off to a flying start as he bids for South Africa in 2010.

Great challenge

"I am extremely happy to be here," said Queiroz.

"I have returned to the national team because I am convinced that we have a great challenge ahead of us and I want to be a part of it.

"I want to thank everyone for their support and I want to repay that trust with dedication and effort to meet the aims of the federation and the expectations of the fans.

"We are going to focus immediately on the 12 points that are up for grabs in the next couple of months in our 2010 World Cup qualifiers."