The coach reflects on the win at home against Boavista FC

Rúben Amorim talked about the 3-0 triumph over Boavista FC in a post-match press conference at the Estádio José Alvalade.

“Was it the display we needed? Above all it was the result we needed. I think we could and should have scored more goals, but we controlled the game well and all of Boavista FC's moves upfield," he began by saying.

"It was a perfect game because the team remained focused. The team's main priority and responsibility is to win our league games, but it's better to prepare for Arsenal after a victory and it was an excellent way to start preparing for that game."

“All the feelings that come with winning and not conceding a goal, like we did today, as well as playing well against a team like Arsenal, give us confidence. We cannot be under any illusions: Arsenal will have a different gear at home and we will have to be smart, but we will be prepared and very confident,” he said, looking ahead to Thursday's game.

Asked if, with this kind of performances more consistently, Sporting CP would be better placed in Liga Portugal, the coach said: “We have players who have come in who show a different quality, and now we are more compact, but I would say that yes, we have found form late. That's down to all of us. Looking at the second half of the season, with eight more points we would be in second. It's a very big difference, but the players are learning from it."

Amorim also commented on Nuno Santos’ spectacular goal.

“What upsets me is that we missed easier chances and then he scores a goal like that. For me, the most important thing is that Nuno Santos can do much better. Everyone gets annoyed when they don't play, but he gets too affected and that sometimes takes his focus away. It's difficult for Nuno Santos sometimes to accept that he isn't playing. Today he scored a great goal, he can score many more and I also think he can be a much better player."