Ruben Amorim is ready to battle for a starting place in Portugal's team for the World Cup.

The Benfica midfielder joined the Seleccao in South Africa this week as a late replacement for Manchester United winger Nani, who was ruled out of the tournament after damaging his collarbone during training.tournament.

And Amorim is keen to prove his worth on the biggest stage of all.

"I am used to people not having great expectations on me," said Amorim. "This was the case at Benfica.

"But that doesn't worry me.

"I have already proved at Benfica that I can give a contribution.

"I did not come here to be Nani's replacement, but to cover a player who is out injured.

"My main aim here is to help the national team and showcase my talent."

Just a week ago, the 25-year-old Amorim was enjoying his holidays in the Algarve before getting a call from the Portuguese federation to join the team in South Africa.

"I got call from coach Carlos Queiroz and I went straight to the airport," he said.

"I have been well received by all my team-mates and I am very happy to be here.

Portugal kick off their campaign against Ivory Coast on Tuesday before further Group G games against Brazil and North Korea.