XAVIER CONFIRMS INTEREST
EVERTON defender Abel Xavier has confirmed that he would be interested in a move back to Portugal, despite the fact that Benfica themselves have denied making any contact with the player or his club.
Click here for Tuesday's exclusive story linking Xavier to Benfica
Xavier, currently injured, says that he would think about moving to Benfica, and admits interest from other clubs as well.
"A move there is something that, evidently, would leave me satisfied, but we speak only of possibilities," said Xavier, talking to the Portuguese media. "But I do know that some clubs interested in my acquisition exist, and they make proposals.
"I know that, in the career of a professional footballer, you should not feel sorry with sentimental aspects, but clearly I think about returning and playing in my country.
"At Benfica? Possibly. The Portuguese club have already provided excellent professional and personal services to their players."
Despite this, some sources in Portugal have suggested that the Portuguese giants have apparently cooled their interest in the defender, after they found out that the player had two years rather than one left on his current deal.
"Abel Xavier is an excellent player," said Benfica official Jose Capristano. "His football qualities and as human beings are above of any suspicion.
"Benfica, however, does not have any contact with him."
