Portugal have suffered a major injury blow after
it was announced winger Nani would play no part in the World Cup
after damaging his collarbone.
The Manchester United star is thought to have suffered the
injury in training on Friday and will be replaced in the squad by
Benfica midfielder Ruben Amorim.
Nani's absence will disrupt the plans of Portugal boss Carlos
Queiroz, who was counting on the 23-year-old following an
impressive season at Old Trafford.
A statement on the Portuguese Football Federation's official
website read: "Following the injury to the left clavicle suffered
by Nani, a daily assessment of the damage and the completion of
medical tests, we have concluded he is unable to be
competitive.
"The medical file will now be presented to the medical
department of Manchester United.
"In light of the report, the Portuguese Football Federation,
taking into account the FIFA regulations for the 2010 World Cup,
will call-up Ruben Amorim as a replacement."
A statement on the Portuguese Football Federation's official
website, www.fpt.pt, read: "Following the injury to the left
clavicle suffered by Nani, a daily assessment of the damage and the
completion of medical tests, we have concluded he is unable to be
competitive.
"The medical file will now be presented to the medical
department of Manchester United.
"In light of the report, the Portuguese Football Federation,
taking into account the FIFA regulations for the 2010 World Cup,
will call-up Ruben Amorim as a replacement."
Nani had struggled to hold down a regular first-team place at
United following his switch to the Barclays Premier League from
Sporting Lisbon in 2007.
But he emerged from the shadow of Cristiano Ronaldo following
his compatriot's move to Real Madrid last summer and became an
integral part of Sir Alex Ferguson's side as they narrowly lost out
in the title race to Chelsea last term.
Amorim made 24 appearances for Benfica last season as they won
the league for the first time in five years.
