Patricio made his debut in November 2006 in an away win where he saved a penalty 15 minutes from time. After fighting off competition from team mates he established himself as Sporting CP’s number one during the 2007-08 campaign and has gone on to make over 200 appearances for the Portuguese side.
Patricio had been picked for several squads before his debut but never managed to make it off the bench. His debut came towards the end of 2010 and has gone on to make 11 appearances for his country.
Benfica stopper Eduardo, struggled to earn a regular starting place in the league which meant that Patricio was Paulo Bento’s number one choice for the national side. The two keepers both played in the qualifying campaign making five appearances each.
Rui is expected to start for Portugal on Saturday and if he can continue the form he has shown in the league he may be a vital part to Portugal’s success this summer.
Source: DSG
