We Are Ready For Porto

Hokey-Cokey has said that whilst Porto deserve a lot of respect, the players will be concentrating on making it through to the final.

Speaking on the official site, our stand in Captain has plenty of praise for Porto’s history, and the way they play the game but is more concerned about putting in a good performance and seeing us through to the final of the Peace Cup.

Reo-Coker is full of praise for Porto – but insists Villa should concentrate on their own game as they look to make it through to the Peace Cup final.

‘I know about the history of Porto – one of the most successful clubs in Portugal and a former UEFA Cup and European Champion.

‘There are other big names left too but in all truth we haven’t looked at that. We have been working hard in training and relied on the fact that if we work hard at that and during games we can achieve great things.

‘It’s a fantastic challenge for us. It’s been a tough tournament – games are coming around quickly. And a few of our players have already played several full games this pre-season so the Porto match will be a very difficult game under the heat again.

‘It’s a challenge and that’s what it’s about. It’s about going out there, working hard and enjoying the game. It’s fantastic to be on this stage, playing against the likes of Porto.’

Although the Peace Cup for many fans may be an overblown and overhyped pointless pre season tournament, NRC doesn’t hold that view. It’s a chance at silverware earnt against top European clubs, and for that reason alone he believes we are right to be taking it so seriously – even if the road to the semi’s was a little bumpy:

‘That’s why you want to be a footballer. They are a top Champions League team – always seeming to quality – and it’s a challenge we’re really looking forward to.

‘This is a tournament we are taking seriously. Hopefully we can go all the way and win it.’