Miguel Velso and Joao Moutinho may provide a more steady and reliable influence in Portugal’s midfield – but Nani could hold the key to Portugal’s hopes in the World Cup.

Unlike most others in the Portuguese set up, the Manchester United winger can produce moments of magic that can turn a game on its head in a split second. But the problem is that it’s impossible to tell when theses moments will come, if at all.

 

Signed from Sporting Lisbon in 2007, it appeared the step up in class proved too much. After two years at United, Nani failed to make sufficient progress and did little to convince the Old Trafford support that he had a long-term future at the club.

At times he was very erratic, wasteful and ponderous. But suddenly he seemed to understand what being a United player was all about.

The winger’s decision-making, dribbling and execution of crosses has vastly improved, while he has weighed in with some important goals and assists.

However, his tendency to be inconsistent hasn’t completely gone away and he can easily revert to his old self. There are safer options in Portugal’s World Cup squad, but Nani might be a gamble worth taking.