According to his father, Spanish striker http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/FC-Porto-c39186.
The former Real Madrid man has rejuvenated his career at Estadio da Luz after a scintillating season in front of goal. The 20-year-old was let go by Los Blancos in 2010 and was eventually snapped up by Benfica.
The Reds, however, did not let him ply his trade at the helm during his first campaign and farmed him out to English Premier League side Bolton Wanderers in order to gain some much needed match experience.
At the Reebok he continued his development under Owen Coyle before returning to Lisbon last summer. Benfica coach http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Jorge-c19120 Jesus took a gamble with the youngster and drafted him into the first team, something which has paid back handsome dividends.
The Spaniard’s attacking prowess has resulted in 14 goals from 21 appearances and has also made him a sought after commodity in Europe with the likes of http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Arsenal-c38429 and his former employers, Real Madrid keeping tabs on his progress.
While Rodrigo has been able to maintain his impressive goal scoring routine over the course of the term, he recently missed Benfica’s Primeira Liga tie with Academica due to a knock he suffered in training.
His presence up-front was sorely missed, as the Lisbon giants were unable to find a way past the Students, resulting in an uninspiring 0-0 draw.
FC Porto, courtesy of their 2-0 win over Feirense, are on top of the league now with a superior goal difference and it sets up a mouth watering game at the Stadium of Light with everything to play for.
Rodrigo’s father, http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Machado-c23008, has spoken to reporters about the Classic and revealed that his son will be raring to go when the clash comes around.
"God willing, Rodrigo will be able to play with FC Porto. It's sad because he cannot help the team, but he is still confident.”
He also added that the forward will not be taking part in La Roja’s International friendlies and will take the time to nurse back to full fitness.
"Almost certainly will not play," he said.
Benfica take on the Portistas at home on the 2nd of March, in a game which could potentially decide the Portuguese title.
Tags: