Real Madrid forward Borja Mayoral says he is ready to be called upon when needed by Zinedine Zidane.
The youngster impressed in the 3-1 win over Levante on Wednesday night while he filled in for injured striker Karim Benzema. Indeed, it was his effort that the home goalkeeper Diego Marino turned into his own net to give Real a 2-0 after 38 minutes.
Speaking to reporters after the game, Mayoral, who has worked his way up the youth ranks at the club, said he is ready to work hard for the team when given his opportunity.
“Zidane told me to continue working hard as I’m doing. To work in both defence and attack. When I heard that I was going to be a starter I was very excited. The team worked well and won three points in a difficult game,” he said.
And he added: “To make my Real Madrid debut against Las Palmas and starting debut tonight is a dream come true for me. It’s big, its special. The entire team and coaching staff has helped me. I’m grateful to them all.”
The striker also spoke about his effort which will go down as a Marino own goal. But he revealed he asked the referee to award it as his strike – to which the ref said no.
He commented: “I dedicate this goal to my family. I will save this shirt as well. I’m happy but I asked the referee to please give award me the goal but in the end he didn’t.”
