Simao harbours Atletico ambition

Besiktas winger Simao Sabrosa has declared he is planning to return to Atletico Madrid at some point in his career.

The former Portugal international left Atletico in December 2010 after three-and-a-half years at the Vicente Calderon to pursue his career in Turkey.

Ahead of Besiktas’ showdown with the Diego Simeone in the Europa League round of 16, Simao admitted he retains hope of playing for the Madrid-based club again.

“Of course it will be a very special match on Thursday because I will meet my friends, who are a part of my family, again,” Simao told AS.

“I experienced very important moments in that shirt. I keep a very strong bond with Atletico and I know that someday I will return.”

Simao believes Besiktas face a hard task to advance in the competition and hailed the impact of coach Simeone at the Spanish club.

“They are now playing much better after a shaky start to the season,” the 32-year-old said. “I speak with some of Atletico’s players and they are very happy.”

“The team are much more committed now. They are very well organised and hard to beat. I am happy for them and for the for club’s fans.”