Former Sporting Lisbon coach Luis Goncalves is in no doubt about William Carvalho's ability to cope with the collapse of a proposed move to West Ham United in the summer transfer window.
William appeared to be Premier League bound, but Sporting Lisbon and West Ham eventually failed to reach an agreement and the midfielder remained in Portugal as bitter words were exchanged between the two clubs.
He has been continually linked with a move to the Premier League, with the West Ham saga the closest William has come to playing in England.
Goncalves believes that William can handle the disappointment and has no concerns about the way the midfielder will go about his business at Sporting Lisbon.
He also stressed the January transfer window is not too far off.
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"It is only natural he wants to make the jump, just like any player at his level", the former Sporting Lisbon coach told Noticias Ao Minuto.
"Apparently there was interest from this English club, but it did not materialise and as a professional William has to continue to contribute to the team wherever he is played.
"The professionalism of a player cannot be called into question by the fact a transfer does not take place or because he is more often seated on the bench.
"The player has to be professional and William would never play badly because of it.
"He is well integrated, despite the failed transfer, and will continue to contribute to the team.
"Also, January is coming…"
William has made five appearances in all competitions for Sporting Lisbon so far this season, providing his team-mates with two assists.
