Wolves star Rui Patricio described as role model by former teammate

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Sporting Lisbon youngster Luis Maximiano says he “always dreamed of being” like the Wolves and Portugal goalkeeper.

Fans of Wolverhampton Wanderers were pleasantly surprised this summer when Rui Patricio joined the newly promoted Premier League outfit.

The 30-year-old arrived at Molineux as a fully-fledged international goalkeeper, with upwards of 60 caps for Portugal and a Euro 2016 winner’s medal.

Patricio had also been a fixture for Sporting Lisbon since coming through the ranks a decade ago and won five trophies with the illustrious club.

However, the stopper’s time at the Estadio Jose Alvalade ended under a dark cloud as he cancelled his contract with the Primeira Liga giants.

Patricio was one of nine first-team players to terminate their association with Sporting following an attack by fans at the club’s training ground.

A dispute between Wolves and Sporting over Patricio’s transfer was eventually settled in October when a fee of €18million (around £16million) was agreed for his services.

But despite having left the Portuguese capital in difficult circumstances, he remains held in high esteem by one of his understudies at the famous club.

Speaking to the Sporting160 podcast, Sporting goalkeeper Luis Maximiano had some kind words to say about the Wolves star.

“I never had a favourite goalkeeper, but one that made a mark on me was Rui Patricio,” said the 19-year-old.

“My dream was always to be where he was. Even at times when he was criticised, I always dreamed of being like him. When Sporting were interested in me he even sent me one of his shirts. We talk a lot. Friends stay forever.”

Patricio has kept four clean sheets in 12 Premier League games, helping Nuno Espirito Santo’s side to 11th in the table. And Maximiano’s comments show they have an inspirational figure in their ranks.