No Glove Lost As Keeper Lets The Side Down

Mar 30 2008 By Gavin Berry

SERB shot-stopper Vladimir Stojkovic has added to Sporting Lisbon's woes with an astonishing outburst that will almost certainly see him shipped out at the end of the season.

The big mouth back-up keeper boasted he was the best in Europe and questioned why he can't get a game ahead of first choice Rui Patricio.

Stojkovic's rant was further evidence of the cracks now appearing amid a dismal domestic season for Paulo Bento's side.

Sporting are languishing fifth in the table and last week crashed to defeat on penalties to Vitoria Setubal in the League Cup Final. Stojkovic's rant was splashed all over the Portuguese press and he was accused of wrecking team spirit ahead of Thursday's trip to Ibrox.

But last night the Serbian international (right) tried to play the issue down.

He said: "I want to speak about Sporting because in the last interview nobody asked me about the club, they only wanted to talk aboutmy situation.

"I was asked about my experience and said I have a winner's mentality. I want to play. But now I can speak about Sporting and want to make it clear the problem I have is down to me, not Sporting.

"I have 45 days left on my contract and the most important thing is what can I do for Sporting in that time. If I have to sit on the bench I'll do it.

"This can still be a great year for Sporting - we can reach the Portuguese and UEFA Cup Finals.

"We can do it because I have respect for Paulo Bento as a coach."