Rustu Recber has vowed to do his bit for Turkey - despite being set for bench duty in Saturday evening's Euro 2008 opener against Portugal.The 35-year-old Besiktas stopper - a hero of the Turkey team which finished third at the 2002 World Cup - has lost the national number one jersey to Volkan Demirel but remains fiercely proud to be part of the squad and keen to contribute in whatever way he can.

"We are all part of the national team. We are all Turkish," he said.

"I think everybody knows our national feelings. Being part of this squad is, in my opinion, a great source of pride.

"Every player wants to play - but even if you don't play the important thing is to see how you can contribute to the performance of the team.

"I believe that you can serve the national team by playing but also by not playing - and I'm very proud to be here."

Rustu knows the Turks will have their work cut out at the Stade de Geneve in their Group A encounter with Luiz Felipe Scolari's team at 7.45pm.

"Portugal, of course, are one of the favourites in the group - and the general opinion is they could be very successful in the tournament," said the former Fenerbahce goalkeeper.

"We respect them. We know they're a good team and have very skilful players - but we are also confident in ourselves.

"We have not beaten them since 1955 but we have managed many things in the past - and with our coach (Fatih Terim), reversed our fortunes in many instances.

"We have not been able to score against them in the last three games, but I want to stress we have many skills - and the fact Portugal are favourites never creates any pressure as far as we are concerned. On the contrary, it gives us a boost.

"What happens on the pitch will determine the outcome of the match, not who is seen to have the advantage."

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