Pepe returns to Portugal squad

Portugal coach Paolo Bento has brought defender Pepe back into his squad for their friendly against the Netherlands on Wednesday.

The 30-year-old, who made his 51st appearance for the national side against Azerbaijan in March, was suspended for Portugal’s last qualifying game against Russia on June 7.

He was also absent for the 1-0 friendly win in Croatia three days after, but returns to the squad for their final game before their World Cup qualifier against Northern Ireland in September.

It will be the first time the sides have met since their group fixture in Euro 2012, which Portugal won 2-1, and Bento has kept faith with Manchester United winger Nani as well as recalling Zenit St Petersburg forward Danny.

There is no place for Hugo Almeida, despite the forward starting the victory over Croatia at the Stade de Geneve, while Andre Martins of Sporting Lisbon could be given his second cap.

The 23-year-old replaces Fenerbahce’s injured midfielder Raul Meireles.

Both sides currently top their qualification groups for the World Cup next year, with Portugal having lost just one game so far.

After they travel to Windsor Park to face Northern Ireland, Bento’s side will round off their campaign with home fixtures against Israel and Luxembourg, while also taking on Brazil in a non-competitive tie.

Goalkeepers: Beto, Eduardo, Rui Patricio

Defenders: Joao Pereira, Fabio Coentrao, Bruno Alves, Ricardo Costa, Silvio, Pepe, Neto

Midfielders: Andre Martins, Joao Moutinho, Miguel Veloso, Ruben Micael, Custodio, Ruben Amorim

Forwards: Nani, Cristiano Ronaldo, Silvestre Varela, Vieirinha, Helder Postiga, Danny, Nelson Oliveira