Benfica ‘to reward’ Franjo Ivanovic with more minutes after Porto and Arouca impact | OneFootball

Franjo Ivanovic is set for increased minutes in Benfica’s run-in after impressing José Mourinho, Record reports. The Croatian forward could be rewarded for recent performances as the Liga Portugal Betclic season nears its finale.

The No 9 had slipped to third choice behind Vangelis Pavlidis and Anísio Cabral. He then supplied an assist in the Clássico against Porto, before scoring the winner in the 2-1 victory over Arouca.

The report adds that, despite limited chances, Ivanovic maintained high standards in training, catching Mourinho’s eye. Confidence in the 22-year-old has grown and further opportunities are expected.

The coaching staff intend to continue working with him to develop attributes that could help him play in his original position.

This season Ivanovic, valued at 20 million euros, has made 35 appearances for Benfica, 18 in Liga Portugal Betclic, 11 in the Champions League, four in the Taça de Portugal and two in the Taça da Liga. Across 1,169 minutes he has six goals and two assists.

Source: Glorioso 1904