Big Phil unfazed by Figo sulk

Big PHIL Scolari, the martinet who is seeking to add the European Championship to the World Cuphe won with Brazil two years ago, imperiously swept aside suggestions that he had offended one of the world’s great players when he substituted Luis Figo in the second half of their quarter-final with England in Lisbon.

Scolari was unmoved when questioned about his reasons for replacing Figo with Rui Costa 75 minutes into a tense battle with Portugal a goal behind and fighting desperately to stay in the championship.

Scolari had routinely dealt with the predictable issues ahead of tonight's semi-final against the Netherlands before mention was made of Figo and his apparent anger at being withdrawn.