RAYMOND WILLIAMS, the Marxist scholar, had an interesting take, not on sport per se, but on people’s attitudes – one that could easily be applied to the non-stop erotic cabaret on offer across the water in the Premier League.

Portugal defender Fernando Couto admits that his team are carrying the burden of high expectations into Euro 2004 but is confident he and his team-mates have the character to fulfil the hopes of the host nation.

Portugal star Luis Figo admits the hosts need three points to settle their nerves against Greece in Saturday’s opening match of Euro 2004, the biggest sports event that the country has ever staged.