Quaresma, from Oporto, has been a top player in the Portuguese league and a red hot candidate supported by fans since his second-half appearance in the April 17 friendly with Egypt.

Also the captain of Portugal's under-21 team is widely hoped to be part of the country's team for the Germany 2006 World Cup, which begins June 9.

Benfica goalkeeper Quim was also called up for the squad, alongside defender Nuno Valente of England's Everton, Deco of Spain's Barcelona, Maniche of England's Chelsea, and Figo of Italy's Inter Milan, all of whom were left out of the November friendly matches Portugal played with Northern Ireland and Croatia. Enditem