Adrian Lopez has denied that issues over his contract renewal have affected his form at Atletico Madrid, and reflected that he intends to continue with the club.
The attacking winger has found himself on the bench in recent weeks for a drop in form. This has coincided with rumours of a departure in light of contract talks that have rumbled on since last summer.
“Any player wants to play as much as possible, but it is difficult. Here there is much competition,” reflected Adrian in an interview published today with Marca.
“And that’s good, it is key to the team doing things so well in all three competitions. I only have to keep working.
“Is it hard as a striker to not have continuity? I don’t know. Obviously when you play you have more rhythm than if you are out for a few games, but we do train every day.
“For when it is your turn you are then in the best possible condition. Everyone here trains very well.
“The contract renewal has not destabilised me. I take things very calmly, I am relaxed. Doubts over renewing it have not influenced my performances on the pitch.
“These things have nothing to do with the games, with the day to day. This things are to one side and do not affect me.
“At the moment we are talking about the contract. But we have to take the issue calmly. There is no rush to extend the contract.”
The forward has been linked with a move away this month or in the summer.
“I isolate myself from rumours. Whenever they occur, even in winter. We are used to them and do not give them any importance. I’m happy at Atletico.
“My goal is to continue here. The good thing is that the team continues in this dynamic. I want to continue experiencing this here.
“Simeone has always had great confidence in me and that is very important. Also so have my colleagues. I am a player that is trusted both by my Coach and by my peers. And that’s good for anyone.
“There are no deadlines for me to return to form. Football is as it is. Sometimes you play better and other times worse.
“You have to work and try to always correct things to help the team to continue in their dynamic.”
