Football | Europa League

Porto's Hulk ready for City



Porto striker Hulk has declared that he is '1 000 per cent ready' for the challenge of facing Manchester City in the Europa League on Wednesday.

The Brazilian has yet to rediscover his best form since overcoming a leg injury but is expected to lead the Porto attack at the Etihad Stadium.

And he is determined to produce a good performance to help his team turn around a 2-1 deficit and progress to the last 16.

The 25-year-old said: "I am 100 per cent. I am sure if I wasn't the manager would not pick me.

"But tomorrow I will not be 100 per cent - I will be 1 000 per cent.

"I don't know if I am playing tomorrow, but if the manager wants I will play as a goalkeeper.

"Every match I give my best and that is what I will do tomorrow.

"I always give my best in Europa League matches but we know Manchester City are strong opposition."

Chances

Porto are attempting to defend the Europa League title they won last season after, like City, dropping back into the competition from the Uefa Champions League.

The Portuguese champions, who have also lost just once in their domestic league this season, troubled City at the Estadio do Dragao last week before surrendering a lead.

Coach Vitor Pereira believes the teams are evenly matched and is confident his side will get chances to turn the tie around.

Pereira said: "The game will be well-balanced, like the first match. We played better at certain stages, as did they.

"We know our strong point is our collective as a team. We have no magic touches, we have to put the effort in.

"We know Manchester City are a team inspired at the moment, they are top of the league and they are a very well-balanced team.

"They play well going forward and defend well. We have to take our chances and use the spaces well.

"I am sure Manchester City will not take many risks and wait for the game to develop, see how it goes."

Pereira says he has not decided if Hulk will start but admits he could be the key man.

He said: "If Hulk plays tomorrow - I am not sure he will play - and if he is inspired, on a good day, he is hard work for any opposition."

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