Atlético Are Back Where They Belong - Futre

Paulo Futre believes that Atlético de Madrid are heading back to the top and is relishing the prospect of seeing them take on Porto in the Champions League next month.

The former Portuguese international had two spells at the Vicente Calderón, with the first coming between 1987 and 1993, during a time when Los Colchoneros aimed to win everything.

Following several barren years, Atleti are now rising back to the top and the return to the Champions League is a sign of just how well they are doing.

"The team is capable of going for everything. In my era we aspired to win everything and now I think this team is very strong too. I really like Aguirre's side with the magic of Agüero and Forlán taking chances," Futre told AS.

"Atlético have been through some bad times but now they are back where they belong. They should be among the top four in the league and going as far as possible in Europe."

Looking ahead to the first knockout round tie against Porto, Futre revealed that he will be in a dilemma about who he wants to win.

"I won the European Cup when I was young with Porto and I had my best years as a player with Atlético," he continued.

"Although I did not win the league, I did win the Copa del Rey twice with one of them being an unforgettable experience as we beat Real Madrid in the Bernabéu.

"My affiliation will be divided, but I may tilt slightly towards Atlético more.

"It does appear to be a very equal tie and there are no favourites as Porto have a very good team."

Looking at both teams squads, Futre thinks that the two teams have some impressive performers and thinks that Atlético will have to not focus on one or two players.

"I really like the left-sided Brazilian Hulk, who moves up and down the flank. He is a great player with strength and power. Atleti will have to watch him. But they have good players all over the pitch, with people like Lucho González and Meireles," he explained.

"Atlético also have a very good player in Simão who is in great form. He is playing even better now than he did in Portugal with Benfica."

Lucas Brown, Goal.com