Petit - nicknamed 'Pitbull'. (Allsport)

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Portugal midfielder Petit is not worried by the burden of being his side's only defensive midfielder for their World Cup opener against the United States on June 5.

The Boavista star was tested as a lone holding midfielder by coach Antonio Oliveira in training on Wednesday.

And with Paolo Sousa struggling to be fit in time for next Wednesday's clash, Petit, who is nicknamed the 'pitbull' for his tenacious play, is likely to be deployed as a lone protector of his team's defence.

The 25-year-old insists he is more than up to the challenge though.

"I prefer to play alone. I play in a different way to other players but the coach knows what is better for the team," he said.

Petit has been linked with a move to Greek giants Panathinaikos after enjoying an impressive season in the Campeonato Nacional.

"I will decide after the World Cup about my future but I've only heard about Panathinaikos' interest from the television."

The Portuguese squad had their final training session in Macau on Wednesday before their expected departure to Korea, where they will be the last team to arrive for the finals.

Sporting Lisbon defender Rui Jorge is optimistic that the Portuguese camp's lengthy preparations will stand them in good stead for the tough task ahead.

"The weather and the effects of a painful season will affect everyone at the World Cup so the team which can keep fresh and has players who can decide matches will have the advantage - and we have both."