Figo Returning to the National Team
Figo returns to Portuguese side
Associated Press
5/13/2005 12:26:28 PM (EST)
LISBON (AP) - Luis Figo agreed to return to the Portugal national team, nine months after quitting international soccer.
The 32-year-old midfielder, who recently lost his place in Real Madrid's team, agreed to play if selected for the June 4 World Cup qualifier at home to Slovakia.
Portuguese soccer federation president Gilberto Madail and Portugal coach Luiz Felipe Scolari asked Figo to return.
A statement by the federation released on Friday stopped short of saying Figo would be included in the squad, but welcomed his availability.
Figo, a former World Player of the Year, halted his 15-year international career in August. He was substituted several times during last year's European Championship, in which Portugal, as host nation, finished runner-up.
Figo played 110 games for Portugal, a record shared with defender Fernando Couto. He scored 31 goals.
Would his presence help the Portugal team? Or is it just a move to 'resurrect' his club career (and possibly getting a good transfer) |