Sporting: 'Those close to me know how tough it was,' says João Simões on injury comeback

LENS — He had not featured for Sporting CP's senior side since 15 April, in a 0-0 draw against Arsenal in London. In that match, João Simões came within inches of scoring the goal that would have sent their UEFA Champions League quarter-final into extra time. However, that clash ultimately led him back to the operating table. A fractured fifth metatarsal in his right foot sidelined the 19-year-old midfielder for nearly six months, but after making an 84th-minute cameo in Saturday's 3-1 win over SC Braga, the number 8 is now in contention to start.

With the Lions set to take on Lens away on Tuesday in matchday two of the Champions League, João Simões stepped up on Monday to address the media in the press room at the Stade Bollaert-Delelis.

— What does it mean to return in the Champions League?

— Above all, I'm really happy to be back with the squad. Nobody likes being injured, and because I love playing so much, I'm thrilled. Whether it's the cup, the league, or the Champions League, the focus is always the same: secure the three points and put in a strong performance.

— Are you expecting a physical scrap rather than an open, fluid match?

— We've analysed Lens and know what they bring to the table. To be where they are, they clearly have quality, and the data proves that, both in their league form and the two titles they've won. But we will be ready and will give our all. We'll only know how it unfolds tomorrow. I still don't know if I'll start.

— Sporting have evolved significantly while you were out. Do you feel added responsibility as one of the longer-serving players?

— The weight of playing for Sporting is always the same, whether you've been here for three, four, or ten years. It's a massive responsibility; we know the club's history. We welcomed all the new arrivals warmly—they came to help and that always makes things easier. We just try to do our best for Sporting.

— Does increased competition in midfield change anything for you?

— Competition is a good thing. The harder it is for the manager to make his selection... and even for me to push myself, it means the overall standard is high, and that's a positive sign. We're all focused on the same target, which is helping Sporting, and that won't change.

— How have you changed after the injury, particularly mentally?

— I've changed a bit. Anyone close to me knows how tough it was... A lot has changed about me—I'm calmer and more patient now. But at the end of the day, I see the glass half full; it's all part of the process. It was a learning curve that made me stronger for the future, helping me handle life and football much better.

More to follow