Former Premier League players Jo said the size of the players in the league surprised him when he moved to Manchester City from Corinthians in 2008.
The Selecao star said it was not easy for him and compatriot Robinho who moved from Real Madrid.
Jo revealed that Robinho was “terrified” when he had to play Portsmouth. The Brazilian star had scored on his debut against Chelsea but he was awed by the size of players he was to face that day. Players like Sylvain Distin, Sol Campbell, Peter Crouch and the rest.
“’Jo, what the hell, are we going to play; football or rugby? Look at the size of these guys!’ I laughed and said: Robinho, welcome to the Premier League. And it gets worse!” Jo said.
The game subsequently ended in City’s favour 6:0. Robinho even scored a goal and had three assists. Robinho agreed to the move to the Etihad around the takeover by Sheikh Mansour. Jo had moved for club record of £20 million but Robinho costs £12.5 million more. However, both players did not last long as they failed to live up to the hype.
Jo scored against Portsmouth that day but it was his only goal for City before he was transferred on loan. At Everton, he managed to score five times in 27 games.
Jo admiited that playing in centre forward role required he was stronger as there was contact with other players all the time. He claimed he “evolved” a lot in England as the league was very demanding.
Jo praised NemanjoVidic and Rio Ferdinand as two tough defenders he faced in the league. He named John Terry as well but concluded that there were “no easy games or easy defenders in the Premier League.”