Diego Lopez has reiterated his desire to continue his work from last season and fight for his place at Real Madrid.
The goalkeeper was signed by Los Merengues as cover for the injured Iker Casillas in January and kept hold of the No 1 jersey through to the end of the season.
With a change of Coach, though, speculation in parts has suggested that the 31-year-old would be looking for an exit, with Iker Casillas considered likely to return to a starting role.
“I hope to continue the work from the last bit of last season,” began Lopez to reporters today.
“The final six months were very good. I’m here to work hard and fight for a spot and hope Madrid win titles and return to being on top. I’m working, trying to convince the Coach and contribute to the team.
“I said when I came here that it was a dream for me. I have never raised the possibility of leaving. I have confidence in my ability. If there have been offers then it is something for Madrid to assess, but my position is to continue with this club. There isn’t long until the start of the season, I need to work hard.”
Lopez was talking on from Madrid’s first training session back after Sunday’s 6-0 preseason win at Bournemouth. Tomorrow sees the team travel out to face Lyon.
“I am excited and the whole dressing room have their batteries fully charged. The arrival of a new Coach has given everyone a boost because competition for places will be tough and we have to give our best.
“The additions to the squad are doing well and are settling in. From the outside things look to be going well and from the inside things feel the same.
“We have a lot of difficult preseason matches and the one against Lyon is one of those. We have to work hard to get the best possible start in the League.”
Reports today again link Gareth Bale with the club.
“I believe that players who are not here in Madrid are not required by the club. He would be a great signing, but the ones that are at the club now are working with the Coach.”
The goalkeeper was asked for comment on the news that Barcelona have appointed Gerardo Martino as Coach.
“I want to send a message of support for Tito Vilanova. The fans, players and club are separate from the disease.
“Barcelona have decided to sign another Coach. He has done important things with Paraguay and his move is good for Barca.”
