Player Profile: Tiago

A typically skilful Portuguese midfield player who is effective protecting the defence and supporting strikers, Tiago is also a splendid passer with an eye for goal.

Having enjoyed a fine career in Portugal’s youth teams, Tiago made his senior debut against Scotland in a November 2002 friendly. He went on to seal a regular berth in the squad and was included in the party for Euro04 although he did not appear as the host nation reached the final.

Groomed at SC Braga, the vultures from larger Portuguese clubs were soon hovering after the youngster enjoyed a fine debut campaign in 1999/00. He went on to play more than 60 league games for the northern club before switching to SL Benfica in December 2001.

He wasted little time in making strides in the Benfica first team, winning over the fans with his fine displays and desire. Tiago then excelled in 2002/03, scoring 13 times in 31 SuperLiga games and helped the Eagles defeat FC Porto in the Portuguese Cup final the following campaign. He subsequently joined Chelsea FC for a fee in the region of €15m, signing a three-year contract.

Tiago scored four goals in 34 games – 13 as a substitute – as Chelsea cantered to their first league title since 1955. He missed just one game as the club reached the Champions League semi-finals, usually coming off the bench when José Mourinho reverted to three midfield players. However, following the arrival of Michael Essien from Olympique Lyonnais, Chelsea accepted a €10m offer from Lyon for the midfield player, who put pen to paper on a four-year deal with the French champions.

He reaches the World Cup just after helped Lyon to win their 5th consecutive title. Having another good moment in his career Tiago could be a great option for Portugal, coming off the bench in important moments.