Valencia midfielder Ever Banega insists retirement never crossed his mind during his long injury lay-off.
Banega has been out of action since a bizarre incident in February, when he fractured his tibia and fibula after being run over by his own car at a petrol station.
“The truth is I was not thinking whether or not to quit football,” he said at a Press conference. “Sometimes during many months of waiting, thoughts go through your head, but I never thought to leave football. I'm happy to return and be with my teammates.
“It was a bad time for me, but I was given a lot of strength by the people who stood by me and the coaching staff that helped with my recovery.”
The Argentine is especially keen to return given Los Che's on field troubles.
“The season is long. Maybe the results are not what was expected, but we have to be calm. We are going to move forward.
“The important thing is Mestalla, above all else. The warmth of the people makes you want to play. I feel at home here.”
The 24-year-old said he would be 'delighted' to form a midfield partnership with compatriot Fernando Gago, but defended Spanish youngster Daniel Parejo from fan criticism.
“I've been through Dani's situation. You have to reverse it, demonstrating your quality on the pitch. He has great quality, I hope he can do well and be recognised at Mestalla.”
