Bruno Fernandes is set to miss Portugal's Nations League match against Norway on Sunday evening through injury, with the Manchester United captain carrying a problem he brought from club duty.
The 32-year-old started in Portugal's 1-0 win over Wales on Thursday night, but national team manager Jorge Jesus has now described his issue as a "complicated problem" and said he prefers not to risk him against Norway.
Fernandes played despite pain
Speaking on Saturday night, Jesus said Fernandes played against Wales carrying an injury he brought from Manchester United, and that the midfielder was not at his usual level.
"He played with an injury he brought from Manchester United. He really wanted to play against Wales," Jesus said. "He wasn't at his usual level, we'll see if he's ready."
The Portugal boss added: "He said he's been dealing with that pain for about three games, and that was one of the factors that prevented him from being at his usual level against Wales."
Jesus prioritises Denmark clash
Jesus, who previously coached Fernandes, said he has already spoken to the player and is prioritising having him fit for Portugal's Nations League match against Denmark on Thursday evening.
"He was my player, I know him perfectly. I've already spoken to him. I prefer not to risk him in this game and have him clean and in good physical condition for the Denmark game," Jesus said.
Manchester United do not return to Premier League action until October 10, when they host Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford. Manager Michael Carrick will hope to have Fernandes available for that fixture, with the club expected to monitor the captain's fitness during the international break.
United are also monitoring Marcus Rashford and Kobbie Mainoo after the duo withdrew from the England squad, while Benjamin Sesko was withdrawn from the Slovenia squad due to injury. Amad Diallo, Matthijs de Ligt, Manuel Ugarte and Tom Heaton were already on the sidelines before the break began.
