Portugal's World Cup central defender situation

The World Cup in South Africa continues to creep closer and we take a look at Portugal's World Cup central defender situation. Carlos Queiroz is currently keeping an eye on Ricardo Carvalho and Pepe who are both out with injury at the moment but both players should be ready in time for the tournament in South Africa. The central defender position will be a key spot for a squad that has had its problems on set pieces. Queiroz will need Carvalho and Pepe at 100% as they look to hold the fort against a tough Brazil and Ivory Coast squad. The central defenders on the Portuguese squad will also be looked to score the odd goal in South Africa from corner kicks or set plays close to the opposition goal. Quieroz is certain to carry 4 central defenders to the world cup but may add a 5th depending on the health of his players. Pepe is a key component as he can also play the defensive midfield position on the squad.

The Inside Track:

Ricardo Carvalho (Chelsea) 31 years old
Portugal stats- 60 Caps, 4 goals
2009/10 Season stats- 22 games played, 0 goals

Bruno Alves (FC Porto) 28 years old
Portugal stats- 28 Caps, 5 goals
2009/10 Season stats- 22 games played, 4 goals

Pepe (Real Madrid) 27 years old
Portugal stats- 24 Caps, 2 goals
2009/10 Season stats- 10 games played, 1 goal

On the Bubble:

Rolando (FC Porto) 24 years old
Portugal stats- 7 Caps, 0 goals
2009/10 Season stats- 21 games played, 2 goals

Ricardo Costa (Lille) 28 years old
Portugal stats- 6 Caps, 0 goals
2009/10 Season stats- 17 games played, 1 goal

Goncalo Brandao (Siena) 23 years old
Portugal stats- 2 Caps, 0 goals
2009/10 Season stats- 20 games played, 0 goals

Outside Shot:

Fernando Meira (Zenit) 31 years old
Portugal stats- 20 Caps, 1 goal
2009/10 Season stats- 22 games played, 1 goal

Ze Castro (Deportivo) 27 years old
Portugal stats- 1 Cap, 0 goals
2009/10 Season stats- 5 games played, 0 goals

Tonel (Sporting) 29 years old
Portugal stats- 2 Caps, 0 goals
2009/10 Season stats- 17 games played, 1 goal

Manuel Da Costa (West Ham) 23 years old
Portugal stats- 0 Caps, 0 goals
2009/10 Season stats- 8 games played, 1 goal