Lopez denies Casillas rift

Former Real Madrid goalkeeper Diego Lopez has denied claims that his relationship with Iker Casillas was strained.

The Milan custodian initially replaced the 33-year-old as Los Blancos’ No 1 after his arrival from Sevilla in January 2013, amidst reports of discontent from the Spain international’s camp.

Casillas eventually regained his first-choice status, playing all-but-one match in Madrid’s path en route to La Decima last season, and Lopez insists he was made to feel part of the triumph.

“La Decima is a title I also felt part of, even though Iker played. It was a victory for the entire team,” he told Sky Sport Italia.

“[My] relationship [with Iker] was normal, like it is with all my fellow professionals.

“[Christian Abbiati and Michael Agazzi] are two great personnel and helping me a lot with my adaptation.

“Fernando [Torres] is an exemplary professional and now has returned to the club of his heart. I'm sure he’ll prove to be the important striker he has always been.”