Fernando Llorente has reflected on his surprise at starting for Athletic Bilbao last weekend, but has determined his commitment until the summer.
The striker is departing San Mames after a difficult season on the sidelines to join Juventus on a Bosman transfer.
However, he has assured that until then, he remains committed to Athletic’s cause.
“It is hard when you are not given a lot of space in the team. However, I understand the situation and the choices of boss Marcelo Bielsa,” commented Llorente this week.
“I’m working hard to be at my best and as I’m playing more I have found I have been better. To score [at the weekend] was important, because for a striker it always gives you confidence.
“I am used to working hard and will try to help the team to the end of the season.
“I will try to help the team how I can, nothing else, we all have to do our best to achieve survival soon.
“The only thing that I can do is train to my maximum.”
The striker was picked to start Athletic’s last match, even as regular first choice this term Aritz Aduriz was available.
“Actually yes, I was surprised, because I’m used to Aduriz playing, but the fact is that I train always to the maximum so I will never really be caught by surprise.
“When I was told I was going to play I was calm because I knew that I had been working hard.”
