Miranda wary of extra competition

Joao Miranda has admitted that he must continue to work to his maximum to maintain his place at Atletico Madrid this season.

The centre-back saw Martin Demichelis initially arrive as increased competition for places in the defence heading into the new season.

Even with the Argentine’s quick departure to Manchester City, Miranda now has Toby Alderweireld has a new recruitment eyeing his position on the park.

“Demichelis has left, he was very good quality but we’ve now got a young player with huge talent,” commented Miranda this week.

“We have to be on top to keep our position. It’s normal that when one player exits another come in.

“Godin and I have been playing together for two years, we know that we have that advantage, but we will have to watch ourselves every day, making sure that we are playing to our best.

“I have a lot of confidence, things are going well because I'm working hard every day and that gives me continuity.

“Atleti’s League hopes? We are fighting to be closer to Barcelona and Real Madrid. We're on the right track and if we go game by game we will continue improving.”

The defender is with Atleti this international break but still holds hopes of making Brazil’s squad for next summer’s World Cup.

“We know that is very difficult to get into the Brazil squad to play the World Cup. There are quality players in the team.

“Filipe was in the Confederations Cup and Diego Costa has been in recent squads, we are doing a great job here and it would be great to make the World Cup.”

Tags Alderweireld Miranda
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